The US will play friendlies against Belgium, Portugal and Germany in 2026 World Cup preparations, with matches in Atlanta, Charlotte and Chicago
THE United States will conclude its preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with high-profile friendlies against Belgium, Portugal and Germany.
The US Soccer Federation confirmed the fixtures on Tuesday as part of the final phase of its tournament build-up.
Head coach Mauricio Pochettino’s team will begin this phase against Belgium in Atlanta on March 28.
The squad will stay in Georgia to face Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal at the same Mercedes-Benz Stadium venue on March 31.
An additional friendly in Charlotte, North Carolina is scheduled for May 31 against an opponent yet to be confirmed.
The pre-tournament schedule will conclude against four-time world champions Germany at Chicago’s Soldier Field on June 6.
Pochettino described the matches as a massive opportunity to challenge his team against top global opposition.
“These are incredible matches for the players and for the fans,” the US coach said in a statement.
Belgium, Portugal and Germany have all qualified for the expanded 48-team World Cup next year.
The tournament is being co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, kicking off on June 11.
The final is set for July 19, with the US opening its campaign in Los Angeles on June 12.
The American team will discover its group stage opponents during the official draw in Washington this Friday. – AFP
