A goal and an assist from star forward Son Heung Min powered South Korea to a commanding 2–0 victory over the United States Men's National Team in a friendly on Saturday, September 6, 2025 (local time, ET), at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey. The match served as a key warm-up ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The pro–Korean crowd, estimated at 26,500, provided a near-home atmosphere, lifting the visitors early on. In the 19th minute, Son, now of LAFC, capitalized on a pass from Lee Jae Sung of Mainz in the Bundesliga, breached the USMNT defence, and curled a well-placed shot past goalkeeper Matt Freese for the opener.
The USMNT’s frailties were exploited again just before halftime. In the 43rd minute, Son orchestrated a slick give-and-go, drawing goalkeeper Freese out, before the ball found Lee Dong Gyeong, who cleverly back-heeled it into the net.
The reunion between Son and his former Tottenham manager, Mauricio Pochettino, offered no solace for the American bench. Although Christian Pulisic returned to the lineup and contributed energy and creative sparks, the U.S. failed to convert promising situations.
South Korean goalkeeper Jo Hyeon Woo was instrumental in preserving the lead, making several critical saves, including thwarting Folarin Balogun on multiple late-game attempts.
Post-match, Pochettino reflected on the result: “I think we were better than South Korea… But if you are not clinical in your own area and in the opposite box, it's difficult.”
Hong Myung Bo, South Korea’s coach, observed: “It felt like the United States' players were struggling a little bit.… It could be because of the matches on their clubs or because of the travel.”
The defeat underscores lingering concerns about the USMNT’s cohesion and finishing ability as the 2026 World Cup draws nearer. The American side now shifts focus to their next friendly against Japan on Tuesday, September 9, in Columbus, Ohio. South Korea, meanwhile, will continue their September tour of North America with a friendly against Mexico on Tuesday, September 9, in Los Angeles.
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