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USMNT vs. South Korea: A High-Stakes Friendly Showdown
Sep
The U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) is set to face South Korea in an international friendly, marking their first encounter since 2014. This highly anticipated match will take place at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey, promising an exciting clash between two formidable footballing nations. With both teams featuring star players and crucial World Cup preparations underway, this friendly is more than just a warm-up—it’s a statement.
The USMNT returns to action after a disappointing loss in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup final, eager to regain momentum. This match is particularly significant as it welcomes back AC Milan midfielder Christian Pulisic, who missed the Gold Cup due to fatigue. His return is a massive boost for the Stars and Stripes, adding a layer of excitement to an already compelling fixture.
Match Details: When and Where to Watch
- Location: Harrison, New Jersey
- Stadium: Sports Illustrated Stadium
- Date: Saturday, September 6
- Kick-Off Time: 5 p.m. ET / 2 p.m. PT
How to Tune In: TV and Live Stream
Fans across the United States can catch all the action through various channels:
- English: TNT, HBO Max, Peacock
- Spanish: Telemundo, Universo
A Look Back: Head-to-Head Record
The historical rivalry between the USMNT and South Korea has been closely contested:
- USMNT wins: 2
- South Korea wins: 3
- Draws: 2
Their last meeting was an international friendly on February 1, 2014, where the USA emerged victorious with a 2-0 scoreline. This history sets the stage for a fiercely competitive match, as both teams look to improve their record against each other.
Current Form: Recent Performances
Assessing recent form provides crucial context for this friendly. The USMNT has had a mixed bag of results, including a defeat to Mexico in the Gold Cup final, while South Korea has shown strength in their World Cup qualifiers.
USMNT Recent Form (All Competitions)
- USMNT 1–2 Mexico – 7/6/25
- USMNT 2–1 Guatemala – 7/2/25
- USMNT 2–2 Costa Rica – 6/29/2025
- USMNT 2–1 Haiti – 6/22/2025
- Saudi Arabia 0–1 USMNT – 6/19/2025
South Korea Recent Form (All Competitions)
- South Korea 4–0 Kuwait – 6/10/25
- Iran 0–2 South Korea – 6/5/25
- South Korea 1–1 Jordan – 3/25/25
- South Korea 1–1 Oman – 6/20/25
- Palestine 1–1 South Korea – 11/19/25
USMNT Team News: Pulisic’s Return and Roster Questions
Head coach Mauricio Pochettino has recalled several European-based stars for this international window, signaling a strong intent. The return of Christian Pulisic is undoubtedly the headline, with the AC Milan maestro having already netted twice for his club this season. His presence is expected to inject creativity and attacking prowess into the squad.
Another player to watch is Norwich City striker Josh Sargent, who has been in scintillating form with five goals in four English Championship appearances. His goal-scoring ability will be crucial for the USMNT’s offensive efforts.
Pochettino is also reintegrating PSV Eindhoven fullback Sergiño Dest and Tim Weah, who recently moved to Marseille. These additions will bolster the team’s flanks and provide valuable experience.
However, roster questions remain, particularly in the center-back position. Crystal Palace’s Chris Richards is a guaranteed starter, but his partner is still up for debate. Potential candidates include Charlotte FC’s Tim Ream, 18-year-old Augsburg talent Noahkai Banks, and Vancouver Whitecaps FC’s Tristan Blackmon. These decisions will be critical as the USMNT builds towards the FIFA World Cup 2026.
USMNT Predicted Lineup vs. South Korea (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Freese
- Defenders: Dest, Richards, Ream, Arfsten
- Midfielders: Adams, de la Torre, Weah, Luna, Pulisic
- Forward: Sargent
South Korea Team News: Son Heung-min Leads the Charge
South Korea, one of the 14 teams already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, will bring a strong contingent to New Jersey. Their loyal fan base is expected to create a vibrant atmosphere, potentially challenging the home advantage of the USMNT.
Leading the charge for the Taeguk Warriors is none other than Son Heung-min, who joins this camp as an LAFC player after a record-breaking transfer fee of $26.5 million. His incredible pace, skill, and goal-scoring ability make him a constant threat to any defense.
Head coach Hong Myung-bo might also hand a debut to Borussia Mönchengladbach midfielder Jens Castrop, who recently made a one-time switch from Germany to represent South Korea. This move highlights South Korea’s growing talent pool and strategic recruitment.
Other European stars include Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Lee Kang-in and FC Bayern Munich center-back Kim Min-jae. While both have faced challenges in securing regular minutes at their respective clubs this season, their quality is undeniable and they will be eager to make an impact for their national team.
South Korea Predicted Lineup vs. USMNT (4-2-2-2)
- Goalkeeper: Kim Seung-gyu
- Defenders: Seol Young-woo, Kim Min-jae, Byeon Jun-soo, Lee Myung-jae
- Midfielders: Park Yong-woo, Seo Min-woo, Lee Kang-in, Bae Jun-ho
- Forwards: Son Heung-min, Oh Hyeon-gyu
Score Prediction: A Tightly Contested Affair
South Korea enters this match with the momentum of an in-form Son Heung-min and recent success in Asian World Cup qualifying. While the USMNT holds a higher FIFA ranking, Coach Pochettino’s squad is still in the early stages of development, and their chemistry may be a factor.
Given South Korea’s cohesive unit and individual brilliance, they might just edge out the USMNT in what promises to be a thrilling contest.
Score Prediction: USMNT 1–2 South Korea
For more detailed analysis and the latest USMNT news, stay tuned to our coverage.
