Harrison: South Korea is set to face the United States this weekend in the first of two friendly matches in America, as part of their preparations for the FIFA World Cup next summer. Ranked 23rd globally, South Korea will take on the 15th-ranked U.S. at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey, at 5 p.m. Saturday (local time), or 6 a.m. Sunday (South Korean time). They will then play against world No. 13 Mexico in Nashville, Tennessee, on Tuesday (local time).
According to Yonhap News Agency, South Korea's upcoming matches are significant as both the United States and Mexico will be co-hosts of the 2026 World Cup, along with Canada. Head coach Hong Myung-bo views these matches as an opportunity to test his squad against formidable teams and acclimate to playing conditions in the U.S. Historically, South Korea has recorded five wins, three draws, and three losses against the U.S., with their last victory occurring in December 2001. The most recent encounter between the teams ended in a 2-0 defeat for South Korea in February 2014.
Hong's 26-man squad is a blend of seasoned players and emerging talent, with Jens Castrop being a notable inclusion. The Korean German midfielder from Borussia Monchengladbach has been called up for the first time, having previously represented Germany at youth levels. As the first player of mixed heritage to join the South Korean men's senior national team, Castrop could make his debut during this trip, especially with Hwang In-beom sidelined due to injury.
Son Heung-min, currently with Los Angeles Football Club, will participate in international duty for the first time since joining the MLS club. The forward left Tottenham Hotspur to better prepare for the World Cup. Although Son has been the team captain since 2018, his leadership role might change, as Hong considers appointing a new captain. For now, Son retains the armband but might see a reduced role on the pitch to maximize his impact.
The goalkeeper position presents an engaging competition between veterans Kim Seung-gyu and Jo Hyeon-woo. Kim, returning to the national team after a knee injury, was the starting goalkeeper at the 2022 World Cup. Jo, who was the main goalkeeper at the 2018 World Cup, has reclaimed his position since Kim's injury. It remains to be seen how Hong will allocate playing time between the two experienced goalkeepers.