USMNT vs Belgium in World Cup Prep Friendly

The United States men's national soccer team faces Belgium in an international friendly on Saturday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, as both squads sharpen preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET, marking the first of two high-profile tune-ups for the U.S. in the city, with Portugal to follow on March 31.

The match serves as a crucial test for the U.S., co-hosts of the upcoming tournament alongside Canada and Mexico. Under coach Mauricio Pochettino, who assumed the role in 2025, the Americans enter unbeaten in their last five outings, including a 5-1 victory over Uruguay in November 2025. The team opens its World Cup group stage on June 12 against Paraguay at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, followed by games against Australia in Seattle and a UEFA playoff winner back in Los Angeles. Pochettino's 27-player roster blends veterans and emerging talents, emphasizing tactical discipline and attacking transitions in a preferred 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation.

Belgium, ranked ninth in the FIFA world standings, arrives as a formidable opponent despite transitioning from its celebrated golden generation. Coached by Rudi Garcia, the Red Devils...