Match Preview for South Korea v Brazil
Both nations have already booked their tickets to the 2026 World Cup. South Korea topped Group B in the third round of qualifying to seal their spot, maintaining their impressive record of qualifying for every World Cup since 1986.
The Taegeuk Warriors famously reached the semi-finals on home soil in 2002 and were eliminated in the round of 16 at the 2022 edition.
Led by Hong Myung-bo, they’ve been in strong form, losing just once in their last 19 matches across all competitions. Recent results include a win over the United States and a draw with Mexico.
Historically, South Korea have struggled against Brazil, losing seven of their eight meetings. Their only win came in a 1-0 friendly victory back in March 1999.
Brazil, on the other hand, will be keen to rediscover their rhythm. The five-time world champions have already qualified for the 2026 tournament but have shown inconsistency of late, winning only two of their last five matches. Their most recent outing was a 1–0 defeat to Bolivia in September.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side will also face Japan during this international window, using these friendlies to fine-tune tactics and assess squad depth ahead of the World Cup.
Team News for South Korea v Brazil
South Korea are expected to line up with captain Heung-Min Son leading the attack, as the LAFC star prepares for his 137th international appearance. There could also be chances for younger players to impress, including Jens Castrop, who may earn just his third cap.
Defensively, Kim Min-jae of Bayern Munich is set to feature, while Lee Kang-in from Paris Saint-Germain could start in an advanced role.
Brazil will be without several key names, including Alisson Becker, Marquinhos, and Raphinha, all sidelined through injury. Even so, Carlo Ancelotti’s squad remains stacked with attacking options, led by Vinicius Junior.
Matheus Cunha returns to the squad after injury and is expected to play in a central attacking role, with Richarlison also pushing for a place up front. In midfield, Casemiro and Bruno Guimaraes could form an all-Premier League partnership.
Expected line-ups for South Korea v Brazil
South Korea: Seung-gyu; Moon-hwan, Min-jae, Yu-min, Ju-sung; Jae-sung, Jin-gyu; Kang-in, Du-jae, Castrop; Son
Brazil: Bento; Vanderson, Militao, Gabriel, Santos; Casemiro, Guimaraes; Estevao, Cunha, Vinicius; Richarlison
The Stats for South Korea v Brazil
- South Korea have lost just one of their last 19 matches across all competitions
- The Taegeuk Warriors have drawn two of their last three friendlies
- Brazil have won only two of their last five matches
- Historically, Brazil have dominated this fixture, winning seven of eight previous meetings
- South Korea’s only win over Brazil came in a friendly back in 1999
How to Watch South Korea v Brazil: TV Channel & Live Stream
The match in Seoul kicks off on Friday, October 11 at 7:00pm local time. The match will be held at the Seoul World Cup Stadium, and it is available on ESPN and local broadcasters in both nations.
Prediction
This match could be closer than many expect. South Korea have been in excellent form and will make life difficult for the visitors. However, Brazil’s attacking quality and individual brilliance should give them the edge in a tight encounter.
Prediction: South Korea 1-2 Brazil
