International Friendly: USA vs. South Korea Picks, Odds, and Preview (Sep 6)

There isn’t long to go before the start of the FIFA World Cup, and the pressure will be on Mauricio Pochettino to ensure that the USA go into next summer’s competition in positive form.

The USA endured a setback in the previous international break after they were beaten in the CONCACAF Gold Cup final by Mexico. But, hopes will be high for a return to form on Saturday.

South Korea have already achieved qualification for next summer’s showpiece event, winning eleven of their 16 qualifying matches. But, an experimental line-up this weekend could hand the advantage to the U.S.

USA vs. South Korea Overview

Odds

USA vs. South Korea Head-to-Head Record

This will be the first international between the sides since February 2014. The USA were comfortable 2-0 winners in the previous encounter, while the same scoreline was also played out between the teams in December 2003.

USA Team News

Pochettino has named a strong squad for the upcoming internationals. Matt Freese is expected to be rewarded for his MLS performances with a start in goal, while Christian Pulisic is back in contention after sitting out the Gold Cup.

Possible Lineup

M. Freese (GK); A. Freeman, C. Richards, T. Ream, M. Arfsten, L. De La Torre, T. Adams, D. Luna, C. Pulisic, M. Tillman, J. Sargent

South Korea Team News

South Korea have named a strong travelling squad for the internationals in North America, but the team could experiment with formations ahead of next summer’s World Cup.

Possible Lineup

C. Lee (GK); Y. Seol, H. Lee, J. Kim, T. Lee, I. Hwang, D. Won, S. Jeon, K. Lee, H. M. Son, H. Oh

USA vs. South Korea Picks

South Korea could be set for a deep run in the World Cup next summer, but the fact that the coach has already teased major changes for this showdown ensures that the pressure will be on the hosts.

Despite a disappointing run of results, it is challenging to overlook the chances of Pochettino’s side when making USA vs. South Korea picks this weekend.