When Estêvão Willian de Lima Ferreira, a 18‑year‑old forward for SE Palmeiras struck twice, Brazil completed a 5‑0 demolition of South Korea at the Seoul World Cup Stadium on Friday, October 10, 2025.
Match Overview
The friendly, part of FIFA’s international window, kicked off at 11:00 UTC under clear skies. The event is marked up as an Brazil‑South Korea International FriendlySeoul World Cup Stadium. From the first whistle, the visitors asserted dominance, piling on goals at the 13th, 17th, 41st, 49th and 63rd minutes.
Key Performances
Alongside Estêvão Ferreira, Rodrigo de Goes, a 24‑year‑old winger for Real Madrid CF, also recorded a brace. Their combined four goals accounted for the majority of Brazil’s tally. A fifth goal, credited to an unnamed substitute, capped the win.
Brazil’s head coach Dorival Junior praised his youngsters in the post‑match interview: “The boys showed the kind of energy we need heading into the World Cup qualifiers. They know how to finish when the chance comes.”
South Korea, fielding a full‑strength XI under manager Hong Myung‑bo, struggled to create meaningful chances. The only Korean shot on target came from forward Lee Jae‑yong in the 77th minute, which the Brazilian goalkeeper easily saved.
Statistical Breakdown
- Possession: Brazil 59 % – South Korea 41 % (Fotmob)
- Total shots: 14 vs 4
- Shots on target: 7 vs 1
- Big chances created: 4 vs 0
- Goals per shot on target: 71 % (5/7) for Brazil, 0 % for Korea
The numbers tell the same story: Brazil’s efficiency was clinical, while the Koreans could barely test the net.
Coaches' Perspectives
Dorival Junior emphasized the importance of the win for morale: “Playing in Seoul gives our players a different atmosphere, and they responded with the right intensity. We’ll keep building on this.”
Meanwhile, Hong Myung‑bo was more measured: “Defensively we were exposed, especially on the flanks. The lesson is clear – we must tighten up before the Asian Cup qualifiers.”
Implications for Future Competition
For Brazil, the match is a confidence booster ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, which begins in November 2025. The young duo of Ferreira and de Goes may earn more minutes in competitive fixtures, challenging seasoned veterans for starting spots.
South Korea, on the other hand, now faces a swift reassessment. With the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers slated for March 2026, the coaching staff is expected to experiment with a deeper defensive lineup and perhaps bring in more experienced midfielders to protect the backline.
Historical Context
Prior to Friday’s clash, Brazil held a flawless 4‑0 record against South Korea in official meetings, never conceding a draw. The margin of victory matches Brazil’s biggest win over an Asian side since a 6‑0 thrashing of Japan in 2022.
The Seoul World Cup Stadium, a 66,704‑seat venue located in Sangam‑dong, Mapo‑gu, has hosted numerous high‑profile fixtures, including the 2002 World Cup final. Its modern pitch and passionate crowds make it a coveted stop for touring national teams.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this result affect Brazil’s World Cup qualifying outlook?
The 5‑0 win reinforces Brazil’s attacking depth and suggests the youngsters will be trusted in upcoming qualifiers. A strong morale boost and the proven ability to convert chances will likely translate into a solid start when the South American group matches kick off in November.
What weaknesses did South Korea expose in this match?
Korea’s defense was vulnerable on the wings, allowing Brazil’s fast wingers to cut inside and shoot. The midfield also struggled to retain possession, evident in the 59 % possession gap. Their lone shot on target highlighted a lack of penetration in the final third.
Who were the standout players for Brazil?
Both Estêvão Ferreira and Rodrigo de Goes stole the show with two goals each. Their movement, pace, and finishing were decisive. Additionally, the unnamed substitute who added the fifth goal showed Brazil’s depth at attacking positions.
When is South Korea’s next competitive test?
Korea will open its Asian Cup qualifying campaign in March 2026, facing Qatar at home. The match will be crucial for gauging the effectiveness of the defensive tweaks hinted at by Hong Myung‑bo.
Will the injury to Brazil’s defender Vanderson affect the squad?
Vanderson’s absence, due to a hamstring strain, opens a spot for a younger center‑back—likely the likes of Gabriel Marques. While his experience is missed, the defensive unit has depth, and Dorival Junior is expected to rotate without losing stability.