Watch South Korea vs Brazil Live: Streaming Links, TV Channel, Team News, and Predictions

Brazil’s Showdown with South Korea: A Prelude to the 2026 World Cup

Brazil, after securing a respectable fifth place in the CONMEBOL qualifiers, is set to continue its preparations for the 2026 World Cup with a friendly match against South Korea. The match is scheduled for Friday at 7 am ET at the Seoul World Cup Stadium. Although Brazil will not be broadcast in the United States, this encounter is highly anticipated as the five-time world champions gear up for next summer’s tournament.

Brazil’s Qualifying Campaign: Ancelotti’s Tactical Influence

Under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti, who took charge in May, Brazil showcased significant defensive improvements. Brazil conceded only one goal in the last four qualifiers, a stark contrast to their previous performances. The team finished just one point behind second-place Ecuador, despite a rather bumpy qualifying campaign that saw them lose six out of 18 games.

South Korea’s Squad: Key Players and Injuries

South Korea enters this international friendly with a robust squad. Bayern Munich’s center-back Kim Min-jae is included despite a recent shoulder injury. Kim missed Bayern’s weekend Bundesliga match but is expected to play against Brazil. Meanwhile, South Korea’s captain Son Heung-min is set to join the squad after a successful stint in the United States, boasting eight goals and three assists in nine appearances for LAFC.

Brazil’s Squad Challenges and Key Absentees

Brazil’s lineup for the match against South Korea will be missing several key players. Marquinhos, Joao Pedro, and Ederson are not part of the squad while Raphinha and Alisson are sidelined with hamstring injuries. The absence of these players may alter Brazil’s approach, but Ancelotti’s team remains a formidable opponent.

Match Preview and Prediction

While Brazil may not display their traditional flamboyant style under Ancelotti, their defensive prowess is expected to ensure a tight game. South Korea will face a stern challenge, with Brazil’s strategy likely focusing on maintaining a robust and disciplined backline.

In prediction, Brazil is expected to secure a narrow victory, with a 1-0 scoreline seeming the most probable outcome. Despite a few key absences, the team’s overall quality and Ancelotti’s defensive acumen should see them through against a competitive South Korean side.