USMNT and South Korea Face Off in World Cup Friendly New Jersey

The United States Men's National Team (USMNT) and South Korea are set to face each other in a friendly match in September 2025 as part of their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the U.S., Canada, and Mexico will co-host. The U.S. team, coached by Mauricio Pochettino, has experienced a challenging year with mixed results including a semi-final exit in the CONCACAF Nations League and a runner-up finish in the Gold Cup, but is looking to build momentum with several upcoming friendlies against strong opponents. South Korea, ranked 23rd globally and led by coach Hong Myung-bo, has qualified comfortably for the World Cup and remains unbeaten in 14 matches, aiming to test their squad depth and playing conditions in the U.S. The South Korean squad includes notable players such as Bundesliga midfielder Jens Castrop, the first foreign-born player of mixed heritage to join the senior national team. Historically, South Korea and the U.S. have a competitive record, with South Korea holding five wins, three draws, and three losses, though the U.S. won their last meeting in 2014. Both teams see this friendly as a key opportunity to assess their readiness for the tournaments ahead, with the U.S. hoping to improve cohesion and South Korea aiming to leverage their recent strong form.