Introduction
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.
Match Preview: Mexico vs. South Korea
Mexico—Building on consistency under Javier Aguirre
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.
South Korea—the next rising power from Asia
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.
Form Guide
Mexico's last 5 matches – W – W – W – D
South Korea's last 5 matches – D – W – W – W
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.
Overall Head-to-Head
Mexico holds a historical advantage over South Korea.
Total Meetings: 15
Mexico Wins: 8
South Korea Wins: 4
Draws: 3
Importantly:
Mexico has won the last three meetings, including a friendly 3-2 win in 2020.
South Korea's last victory was way back in 2006.
The last three matchups all featured over 2.5 goals.
Team News
Mexico Team News
César Montes is suspended due to his red card vs. Japan.
Edson Álvarez is injured.
Raúl Jiménez will lead the attack.
Hirving Lozano returned from injury last week and is expected to play.
Possible Mexico XI (4-3-3):
Malagón (GK); Sánchez, Purata, Vásquez, Gallardo; Ruiz, Álvarez, Pineda; Vega, Jiménez, Alvarado
South Korea Team News
Full squad available and no major injuries.
Jens Castrop made his debut vs. USA and may see additional minutes.
Although Son Heung-min will be captain, expect increased commitment in chasing the caps and goalscoring records.
Possible South Korea XI (4-2-3-1):
Cho (GK); T.S. Lee, J. Kim, Min-jae, H.B. Lee; Paik, Seol; Kang-in, J. Lee, Heung-min; Cho Gyu-sung
Key Players to Watch
Mexico – Raúl Jiménez
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.
South Korea – Son Heung-min
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.
Match Analysis
This is more than a friendly—it’s a match between 2 iconic soccer nations as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Mexico strengths: Tactical discipline, depth in midfield, experience in big matches
Mexico weaknesses: defensive gaps in depth (no Montes), inconsistency in attacks
South Korea strengths: Defensive record, pace on the counter-attack, weapon with Son
South Korea weaknesses: Creative consistency without Son, midfield under pressure in transitions.
Tactics:
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.
Betting Advice
South Korea to win—taking into account form and balance.
Under 3.5 goals—both defences are disciplined.
Son Heung-min to score anytime—he scores in big games.
Mexico vs. South Korea Prediction
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
Conclusion
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.
- Final Prediction: Mexico 1-2 South Korea
- Best Bet: South Korea to win & under 3.5 goals
