Did Son Heung-min Shine as Korea Defeated USA 2-0?
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Synopsis
South Korea's Son Heung-min impressed with a goal and an assist, leading his team to a decisive 2-0 victory over the USA in a friendly match. This clash marks a significant moment for both teams as they gear up for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. Read on to find out more about this exciting encounter!
Key Takeaways
- Son Heung-min led South Korea with a goal and an assist.
- The match ended in a 2-0 victory for South Korea against the USA.
- The friendly was part of preparations for the 2026 World Cup.
- South Korea displayed strong teamwork and strategy.
- Both teams are focusing on improving before the World Cup.
New York, Sep 7 (NationPress) Son Heung-min netted a goal and assisted another, guiding South Korea to a 2-0 victory against the United States in an international football friendly on Sunday (IST).
The clash between these two teams, both preparing for the 2026 World Cup, took place at Harrison, New Jersey, in the home ground of MLS club New York Red Bulls.
Son found the net in the 18th minute, with Lee Dong-gyeong adding another in the 43rd to secure a decisive win over the US, coached by Mauricio Pochettino, Son's former manager at Tottenham Hotspur.
Recently, Son made headlines by joining Major League Soccer's Los Angeles FC, a move that has thrilled Korean football fans in the US, according to AFC.
The US team, coming off a recent 2-1 loss to Mexico in the CONCACAF Gold Cup final, welcomed back Christian Pulisic. However, this match marked another disappointing outcome for a squad struggling to build momentum ahead of the World Cup.
Son initiated the scoring in the 18th minute by staying just onside and receiving a pass from Lee Jae-sung. He then surged towards the goal, delivering a powerful left-footed shot from a challenging angle past US goalkeeper Matt Freese into the far right corner.
Korea extended their lead in the 43rd minute when Son executed a give-and-go, receiving a return pass in the penalty area, then quickly flicking the ball to Lee Dong-gyeong, who back-heeled it into the net, giving the visitors a commanding 2-0 advantage at halftime.
Son was substituted for Oh Hyeon-gyu in the 63rd minute as both teams made several changes. Jo Hyeon-woo made critical saves, denying a close-range effort from Richards and stopping Folarin Balogun in the dying moments to maintain a clean sheet.
South Korea is set to face Mexico on Tuesday, while the United States will take on Japan.
Hajime Moriyasu's Japan recently played to a goalless draw against Mexico, who ended the match with ten players after Cesar Montes was sent off.
Point of View
I see this match as a testament to South Korea's growing football prowess, highlighted by Son Heung-min's exceptional skills. While the USA faces challenges, this friendly provides valuable lessons ahead of the World Cup. It's essential for both nations to capitalize on these opportunities as they strive for success on the global stage.
NationPress
07/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the match?
South Korea defeated the USA 2-0.
Who scored the goals for South Korea?
Son Heung-min scored the first goal, and Lee Dong-gyeong scored the second.
Where was the match held?
The match took place in Harrison, New Jersey, at the New York Red Bulls' stadium.
What teams are preparing for the 2026 World Cup?
Both South Korea and the USA are preparing for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
What was the significance of Son's performance?
Son's goal and assist were crucial in securing the victory, showcasing his talent and leadership.
