Pre-World Cup 2026 friendlies: Austria-South Korea, likely lineups

Austria and South Korea face each other Tuesday night at 8:45 p.m. in the friendly test at Vienna’s Ernst Happel Stadion, a crucial stage in their preparation for the 2026 World Cup. The Austrians, led by Ralf Rangnick, want to confirm the excellent form and tactical solidity shown in recent outings, taking advantage of the field factor to send a signal to the big boys of world soccer. Conversely, the South Koreans arrive in Europe to hone their understanding and test their speed against a physical defense; the Asian national team, already qualified for the World Cup, is banking on quick transitions to surprise the hosts.

Kalajdzic (ahead of Gregoritsch) will be the offensive terminal of Austria’s 4-2-3-1, supported on the three-quarter by Baumgartner’s talent and Laimer’s drive. In the median, the dike will be composed of Chukwuemeka and Grillitsch.

For South Korea, the number one danger remains Son Heung-min, who will act behind the lone forward Cho Gue-sung. In midfield, the geometries are entrusted to Hwang In-beom, while in defense the mainstay is the “colossus” Kim Min-jae.

AUSTRIA (4-2-3-1): Pentz; Posch, Danso, Lienhart, Mwene; Chukwuemeka, Grillitsch; Laimer, Baumgartner, Arnautovic; Kalajdzic. C.T. Ragnick.

SOUTH KOREA (4-2-3-1): Jo Hyeon-woo; Seol Young-woo, Kim Min-jae, Kim Young-gwon, Kim Jin-su; Park Yong-woo, Hwang In-beom; Lee Kang-in, Son Heung-min, Hwang Hee-chan; Cho Gue-sung. C.T. Hong-Myung Bo.