What's Happening?
The U.S. men's national soccer team (USMNT) is in advanced discussions to host exhibition matches against Portugal and Belgium in March 2026. These matches are part of the team's preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the U.S. will co-host with Canada and Mexico. The USMNT, led by head coach Mauricio Pochettino, aims to test its players against top-ranked teams from different confederations. The potential match against Portugal would mark Cristiano Ronaldo's return to the U.S. after nearly 12 years. The matches are likely to be held in NFL-sized venues on the East Coast, with Atlanta Falcons' Mercedes-Benz Stadium being a possible location for the Portugal match.
Why It's Important?
These exhibition matches are crucial for the USMNT as they prepare for the World Cup without needing to qualify, given their status as a host nation. Facing strong teams like Portugal and Belgium will provide valuable experience and help assess the team's readiness for the tournament. The matches also hold commercial significance, potentially attracting large crowds and media attention, especially with the involvement of high-profile players like Cristiano Ronaldo. This could boost soccer's popularity in the U.S. and enhance the team's visibility on the international stage.
What's Next?
The USMNT will continue its preparations by playing against various international teams in the months leading up to the World Cup. The finalization of the exhibition matches with Portugal and Belgium will depend on the European teams' qualification status for the tournament. Additionally, the USMNT is exploring training sites in California, with the University of California, Irvine being a potential base. The team will also participate in other friendlies against countries like Japan, Ecuador, Australia, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
