Football fans across the world are going to see a match to remember as Mexico takes on South Korea in an international friendly at GEODIS Park, Nashville, on September 10th, 2025 (01:00 AM UTC). Both of these teams will be preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and this prestigious encounter will highlight both teams' tactical depth, squad strength, and mentality in tough challenges.

While Mexico is coming from an exciting historic Gold Cup win, South Korea comes into this fixture with great consistency following the equally impressive World Cup qualifying campaign and recent friendly outings. With elite players such as Raúl Jiménez and Son Heung-min on the pitch, fireworks are guaranteed.

Mexico has had an efficient 2025 thus far, as they secured the CONCACAF Nations League in March following a dramatic win against Panama, as well as finishing their path to win their 10th Gold Cup title in July. This puts Mexico solidly on top as the most successful nation in CONCACAF for the record books. 

But Mexico's recent performances have shown some things that potentially allow teams to exploit them. Following the 'king of the CONCACAF' title in the Gold Cup final against the USA, they played to a 0-0 draw against Japan in a friendly. That game exposed a lack of offensive power as El Tri failed to turn chances into goals. Even worse, César Montes was shown a red card in added time, and Aguirre will have to work a backline scramble ahead of this match.

Still, Mexico remains unbeaten in their last eight appearances in all competitions. They also feature an enviable squad depth with seasoned veterans such as Raúl Jiménez and Hirving Lozano. They're still a dangerous opponent.

The Taegeuk Warriors are in equally good form. Already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, South Korea can use these friendlies to practise tactics and build combinations. They had their 16-match unbeaten streak ended in the final of the East Asian Cup against Japan (3-1 loss) but bounced back strong with a 2-0 victory over the USA.

Son Heung-min was, predictably, the star of the match. The Tottenham Hotspur legend scored one and assisted another—reminding the world once more why he is South Korea’s talisman. With 52 goals internationally, Son is chasing Cha Bum-kun’s legendary mark of 58 and is one cap away from tying the all-time appearances record.

Defensively, Korea has been rocking solid, with five clean sheets in their last six matches. They have a mix of seasoned professionals based in Europe, like Kim Min-jae (Bayern Munich), and younger players with potential, like Lee Kang-in. This squad is blending both sides of the equation well—experience and youth.

Both teams come into this friendly with strong momentum, but with just slightly better attacking efficiency and a stronger defensive record, South Korea trends slightly in the form book.

Mexico holds a historical advantage over South Korea. 

Importantly:

Malagón (GK); Sánchez, Purata, Vásquez, Gallardo; Ruiz, Álvarez, Pineda; Vega, Jiménez, Alvarado 

Cho (GK); T.S. Lee, J. Kim, Min-jae, H.B. Lee; Paik, Seol; Kang-in, J. Lee, Heung-min; Cho Gyu-sung 

The Fulham striker is Mexico’s most reliable attacking option. Jimenez—and his size and aerial ability, hold-up play, and finishing ability—continues to be dangerous despite some injury issues over the years. Jimenez has scored 3 goals in 2025 already.

Captain, leader, talisman. Son is the leader of this team with his creative ability, pace, and final end product. He puts pressure on opposing defences by drifting into spaces to create chances.

This is more than a friendly—it’s a match between 2 iconic soccer nations as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

You can expect possession by Mexico and a compact deep 4-4-2 or 5-4-1 by South Korea. I expect them to play direct and in transition via Son and Lee Kang-in. It could end up being a dull affair with few chances. 

Expect a close game. Mexico are unbeaten, and the advantage of being at home in Nashville will help them, but South Korea's defensive strength and Son may prove to be the difference.

Prediction: Mexico 1-2 South Korea

The Mexico vs. South Korea friendly is more than just an exhibition; it is a battle for pride, preparation, and momentum leading into the World Cup. While history favours Mexico, recent form has seen South Korea emerge as something of a force. The action should be worth tuning into.

There are tactical battles to spell out, battling star performers like Raúl Jiménez and Son Heung-min, and because of this it should be an even contest. The big opportunity for the betters is here too; there are some golden opportunities available as an initial offer from Stake.com via Donde Bonuses, offering you free bets and more bankroll.