Two matches remain for the U.S. Men’s National Team before the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on home soil

ATLANTA – Between the spirited, full-capacity stadium and high level of competition, the atmosphere at the two U.S. Men’s National Team matches in March was excitingly reminiscent of a FIFA World Cup. Droves of soccer fans gathered in Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home to the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United in MLS. The attendance of 66,867 on Saturday, Marcy 28 and 72,297 on Tuesday, March 31 showed the best of what soccer in America has to offer.

On the pitch, the USMNT faced two of the best teams in the world – ninth-ranked Belgium and sixth-ranked Portugal. The Americans showed in significant stretches the ability to match the level of their opponent. USMNT midfielder Weston McKennie opened the scoring against Belgium in a first half the U.S. dominated. On Tuesday, the Stars & Stripes created several good scoring chances, outshooting the Portuguese 8-3 in the first half, but two skillful strikes from Portugal decided the match.

“I am more positive now than before because seeing the team compete, we are not far away,” USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino said after...