USMNT to face Portugal in 2026 pre-World Cup friendly in Atlanta

Tickets on sale now for the March match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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The U.S. Men's National Soccer Team will take on Portugal in a high-profile friendly match in Atlanta on March 15, 2026, just months before the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off in North America. The match will be a final tune-up for both teams as they prepare for the global tournament.

Why it matters

This will be the first time the USMNT has faced Portugal since 2014, and the first time legendary striker Cristiano Ronaldo has played in the U.S. since that same year. The match provides a valuable opportunity for the American squad to test themselves against top international competition ahead of the World Cup.

The details

Tickets for the USMNT vs. Portugal friendly at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta are on sale now. Prices range from $50 for upper-level seats to $150 for premium lower-bowl access. The match is scheduled for March 15, 2026, with kickoff set for 7:30 p.m. local time.

  • Tickets went on sale on February 17, 2026.
  • The match will be played on March 15, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. local time.

The players

USMNT

The United States Men's National Soccer Team, the men's national association football team of the United States.

Portugal

The men's national association football team of Portugal.

Cristiano Ronaldo

A legendary Portuguese footballer who has played for the Portuguese national team since 2003.

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What they’re saying

“This is a great opportunity for our team to test themselves against top-level international competition as we prepare for the World Cup. Facing a squad like Portugal, led by a player of Cristiano Ronaldo's caliber, will really challenge us and help identify areas we need to improve.”

— Gregg Berhalter, Head Coach, USMNT (ESPN)

What’s next

Tickets for the USMNT vs. Portugal friendly are on sale now and can be purchased through the Mercedes-Benz Stadium website or Ticketmaster.

The takeaway

This high-profile pre-World Cup friendly in Atlanta provides the USMNT with a valuable opportunity to fine-tune their preparations against a world-class opponent, while also giving American soccer fans a chance to see Cristiano Ronaldo and the Portuguese national team in person for the first time in over a decade.