USMNT x South Korea

The United States Men’s National Team walked off the field at Red Bull Arena with plenty of questions to answer after falling 2–0 to South Korea in a high-profile friendly. In front of a lively crowd of more than 26,000, the Americans showed energy and attacking intent, but South Korea’s clinical finishing and defensive sharpness proved the difference.

It was always going to be a long night dealing with Son Heung-min, and the Tottenham star made his mark early. In the 18th minute he latched onto a perfectly weighted pass, raced in behind the US back line, and coolly slotted past goalkeeper Matt Freese to silence the home fans. Just before halftime, disaster struck again. A clever Korean buildup found space behind the defense, and Son’s clever dummy opened the door for Lee Dong-gyeong to tuck home the second. Two chances, two goals, and the US found themselves in a deep hole.

The Americans actually carried much of the play, firing off 17 shots compared to South Korea’s five, but their finishing touch deserted them. Christian Pulisic, back in a US shirt after a long layoff, tried to inject urgency with his dribbles and quick passes, but his efforts came to nothing. Sergiño Dest returned from injury and looked lively, while defender Tristan Blackmon earned his first cap, but overall the team struggled to turn possession into real danger.

Meanwhile, South Korea showed exactly what makes them such a dangerous side—discipline at the back, lightning-quick counters, and the ruthless edge of Son. Keeper Jo Hyeon-woo stood tall whenever the US tested him, ensuring there would be no comeback.

By the final whistle, the difference was clear: South Korea were sharper, more clinical, and more composed. For the US, the performance wasn’t without positives, especially the chance to reintegrate Pulisic and test depth players, but the defensive lapses and missed chances will be a concern with the World Cup on the horizon.

[Photography by Trey Madara]