USA — South Korea : Match Preview and Prediction for September 07,2025

USA Squad Overhaul and Missing Key Players

The US national team approaches this friendly match in a significant state of flux, undergoing substantial squad restructuring and experimentation. Coach Mauricio Pochettino has called up a roster that raises numerous questions, notably omitting pivotal players like Weston McKennie, Yunus Musah, and Giovanni Reyna. This is not the familiar core squad we are accustomed to seeing, which will inevitably impact team cohesion and on-field understanding.

Defensive Vulnerabilities

The defensive line, in particular, appears vulnerable. Sergino Dest is only just returning after a severe cruciate ligament injury, and his physical readiness remains a major concern. Veteran Tim Ream will turn 38 in October, and the left-back position offers a scarcity of options until the primary player returns. These circumstances create obvious gaps that a quick and incisive South Korean attack could readily exploit.

Recent Performance and Tactical Shortcomings

An analysis of the Americans’ last official fixture, the CONCACAF Gold Cup final against Mexico, exposes serious tactical and performance issues. While the USA lost 1-2, the scoreline doesn’t tell the whole story. Statistics paint a clear picture: the Americans were outplayed in possession (40% vs. 60%), shots (6 vs. 16), and most tellingly, corners – an astonishing 0:12! This indicates that Pochettino’s side was under immense pressure throughout the match and was comprehensively outmaneuvered tactically.

South Korea’s Formidable Squad

In stark contrast to the Americans, the South Koreans have brought a highly capable and formidable squad to New Jersey. Their ranks boast world-class stars who can single-handedly influence the outcome of a game. Captain Son Heung-min, who recently moved to “Los Angeles,” Bayern Munich’s central defender Kim Min-jae, and PSG’s attacking midfielder Lee Kang-in are all top-tier footballers who will pose a significant challenge to any defense.

Impressive Recent Form and Away Record

The form of the South Korean national team commands respect. They have remained undefeated in 16 of their last 17 matches. Furthermore, their away record is even more impressive – an unbeaten streak of 8 consecutive matches on foreign soil. This team possesses a proven ability to secure results away from home, playing with a pragmatic and organized approach.

Solid Defense and Tactical Strength

Among South Korea’s key strengths is their defense, widely regarded as one of the most challenging to break down in Asia. In their five matches leading up to this fixture, they conceded only a solitary goal. Additionally, the squad has been bolstered by the naturalized German midfielder Jens Castrop from “Borussia Mönchengladbach,” whom coach Hong Myung Bo describes as a true “fighter.” This addition provides the team with increased versatility and physical prowess in the midfield.