USMNT Falls 5-2 to Belgium in World Cup Warm‑up
Get the Sports newsletter
Daily sports — scores, transfers, the storylines from the leagues you actually follow. Free.
- U.S. men's national team lost 5-2 to Belgium at Mercedes‑Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Saturday, ending a five‑game unbeaten run.
- Weston McKennie scored the opening goal in the 39th minute, his 12th international goal and first in three years.
- Belgium surged in the second half, scoring three goals within 15 minutes (Amadou Onana, Charles De Ketelaere on penalty, Dodi Lukebakio) after equalising just before halftime.
- Mauricio Pochettino called the defeat a “reality check” and warned against complacency before the World Cup.
- Christian Pulisic remained goalless, extending his U.S. goal drought to seven games since November 2024.
- Tim Weah started at right back despite the absence of defenders Sergiño Dest, Chris Richards, Miles Robinson, and midfielder Tyler Adams.
Why it matters: The defeat deprives the United States of momentum and exposes defensive frailties ahead of the World Cup, while Belgium demonstrates depth despite missing key players, reinforcing their status as a top‑ranked opponent. It also puts pressure on coach Mauricio Pochettino’s upcoming roster decisions and underscores the need for defensive adjustments before the tournament.
