United States fall to Portugal in pre-World Cup friendly

By Dylan Butler

The United States fell to Portugal , 2-0 , in the final tune-up before head coach Mauricio Pochettino announces his squad for this summer's 2026 FIFA World Cup .

Tuesday's loss in front of 72,297 fans at Atlanta United 's Mercedes-Benz Stadium came on the heels of a 5-2 defeat to Belgium Saturday in Atlanta.

Capitalizing on a turnover in the midfield, Francisco Trincão put Portugal , No. 5 in the FIFA world rankings, in front on 37 minutes. The Sporting CP midfielder tucked his shot inside the far post to put the finishing touches on a quick counterattack.

Before the opening goal, New York City FC 's Matt Freese made a sensational diving save to deny Bruno Fernandes, and Vancouver Whitecaps midfielder Sebastian Berhalter put a curling shot from distance on frame before it was parried away by goalkeeper José Sá in what was largely a positive first half for the USMNT.

Portugal doubled their lead just before the hour mark, with João Félix settling a Fernandes corner kick from just outside the box before lashing a side-footed shot in off the post.

Lineups

– Wednesday, 1 April 2026

– Tuesday, 31 March 2026

United States Portugal Mauricio Pochettino Francisco Trincão Bruno Fernandes Sebastian Berhalter João Félix FIFA World Cup

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United States fall to Portugal in pre-World Cup friendly

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