USA Faces Belgium, Portugal, Germany in Final Matches Before 2026 World Cup

The U.S. Men’s National Team is poised for its final pre-tournament matches leading up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. These matches will showcase the team’s readiness as they encounter some of the world’s elite soccer nations: Belgium, Portugal, and Germany.

Key Matches Ahead of the 2026 World Cup

Four matches have been scheduled to help the USMNT prepare for the World Cup, each taking place in cities known for their vibrant sports culture. The fixtures involve three top-10 teams and will occur at NFL and MLS stadiums.

Match Schedule

• USA vs. Belgium
  • Date: March 28, 2026
  • Time: 3:30 p.m. ET
  • Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
  • Broadcast: TNT, HBO Max, Telemundo, Universo, Peacock
• USA vs. Portugal
  • Date: March 31, 2026
  • Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
  • Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
  • Broadcast: TNT, TruTV, HBO Max, Universo, Peacock
• Allstate Continental Clásico
  • Date: May 31, 2026
  • Time: 3:30 p.m. ET
  • Venue: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, NC
  • Broadcast: TBS, HBO Max, Universo, Peacock
  • Opponent: To be determined
• USA vs. Germany
  • Date: June 6, 2026
  • Time: 2:30 p.m. ET
  • Venue: Soldier Field, Chicago
  • Broadcast: TBS, HBO Max, Telemundo, Universo, Peacock

Preparation and Strategy

Head coach Mauricio Pochettino emphasized the importance of these matches. They will provide valuable experience against different playing styles that the team may encounter in the World Cup.

Facing Belgium, ranked eighth globally, will be a formidable challenge. The Belgian squad includes stars like Kevin De Bruyne and Thibaut Courtois. Portugal, currently sixth, is led by Cristiano Ronaldo, an iconic figure in soccer history. Germany, a four-time World Cup champion, is also included, boasting a roster filled with talent from top clubs.

Ticket Sales Information

Tickets for these matches will be available starting December 5, 2025. A presale will begin on December 3, with various tiers available for U.S. Soccer Insiders.

• Presale Dates:
  • Circle Insiders: December 3, 10 a.m. ET
  • VIP Insiders: December 3, 1 p.m. ET
  • Public Sale: December 5, 10 a.m. ET

Historical Context

The U.S. has a rich historical backdrop against its upcoming opponents. The team first played against Belgium in the U.S. in 2013, losing 4-2. The match against Portugal will mark their first meeting since a 1-1 draw in 2017. Matches against Germany have historically been competitive, with the U.S. hoping to improve on previous records against the talented European team.

These matches not only serve as a preparation for the World Cup but also reinforce the growing soccer presence in the United States, particularly in cities like Atlanta, Charlotte, and Chicago.

Fans can follow the journey of the USMNT through various social media platforms to stay updated on team news, match highlights, and ticket information as they head towards the 2026 FIFA World Cup.