TThe U.S. men’s national soccer team’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup suffered a major setback on Saturday as Belgium mounted a second-half onslaught to claim a 5-2 victory at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
What started as a promising match for the Americans quickly turned into a stark reminder of their defensive fragility, calling into question the team’s preparation for the tournament, which it will co-host with Canada and Mexico.
The United States got off to a strong start, dominating the ball and creating several chances early on. Their efforts paid off in the 39th minute when midfielder Weston McKennie converted Anthony Robinson’s corner kick at the back post, scoring his 12th international goal and his first in three years.
The goal energized the crowd of 66,867 and briefly hinted that Pochettino’s side could hold their own against the ninth-placed Belgians.
However, Belgium changed the momentum and fought back with Zeno De Basto’s long-range equalizer just before half-time. The second half quickly turned dire for the Americans. Belgium scored three goals in just 15 minutes, exposing their defensive lapses and frustrating players and fans alike.
Amadou Onana put Belgium ahead, then Charles de Ketelaère converted a penalty after a handball from U.S. captain Tim Ream. Dodi Lukebakio then displayed his flair with a curling effort into the top corner, before adding a second goal in the 82nd minute to cement Belgium’s advantage. A late goal from substitute Patrick Agyemang provided a small consolation and the score finished at 52.
Defensive worries and concerns about the World Cup
The heavy defeat highlighted the challenges facing Pochettino’s side. Key defenders Sergio Dest, Chris Richards and Miles Robinson were out with injuries, as was midfielder Tyler Adams.
These absences forced them to make adjustments, including placing Tim Weah at right-back, who struggled with the pace and skill of the Belgian attackers, including Manchester City winger Jurmy Doku. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Matt Turner is back for the first time since June 2025, while left-back Anthony Robinson is making his first appearance since November 2024, with both facing difficult fixtures.
Despite missing notable Belgian players such as Romelu Lukaku, Leandro Trossard, Hans Vanaken and Thibaut Courtois, the efficiency of the visiting team is undeniable. Belgium extended its undefeated streak to 10 games and snapped a six-game winning streak against the United States dating back to 1930.
The result ended a five-game unbeaten run under Pochettino for the Americans, but prompted harsh criticism, with former player Taylor Twellman calling the X’s defense “disgusting” and “disgusting”.
Looking ahead, the USMNT will face Portugal, another top European opponent, in Atlanta on Tuesday. The game will be Pochettino’s last chance to assess his players before deciding on his World Cup squad at the end of May.
The United States opens its 2026 tournament against Paraguay on June 12 in Inglewood, Calif., but the team needs to address its defensive vulnerabilities quickly if it wants to make a meaningful impact at home.
