USMNT Struggles Against Belgium in Friendly Defeat

Promising first half overshadowed by defensive lapses and dominant performance from Belgian star Jeremy Doku

Mar. 28, 2026 at 10:24pm

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The U.S. men's national team suffered a 5-2 loss to Belgium in an international friendly match in Atlanta on Saturday. Despite a strong start that saw the USMNT take an early lead, the team was ultimately outmatched by a Belgian squad led by Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku, who was instrumental in setting up three of Belgium's goals. The defeat raises further questions about the USMNT's ability to compete with top European opponents ahead of this summer's World Cup.

Why it matters

The lopsided loss to Belgium is a concerning result for the USMNT, which had been feeling confident after a recent unbeaten streak. The game highlighted the continued defensive vulnerabilities of Mauricio Pochettino's side, as well as the gap in talent between the U.S. and soccer's global powers. With the World Cup looming, the USMNT will need to address these issues if they hope to make a strong showing on the international stage.

The details

Despite taking an early lead through a Weston McKennie goal, the USMNT was ultimately undone by a dominant performance from Belgian winger Jeremy Doku. Doku was instrumental in setting up Belgium's first three goals, repeatedly beating U.S. defenders Tim Weah and Mark McKenzie. The Americans' defensive issues were compounded by a handball from Tim Ream that led to a Belgium penalty, and late goals from Dodi Lukebakio that put the game out of reach.

  • The match was played on Saturday, March 28, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.
  • The USMNT had been on a five-game unbeaten streak heading into this camp.

The players

Jeremy Doku

A 24-year-old winger for Manchester City who was the standout player of the match, repeatedly creating chances for Belgium.

Tim Weah

The USMNT winger who struggled to contain Doku throughout the match.

Mark McKenzie

The USMNT defender who was also unable to stop Doku's runs and was at fault for Belgium's second goal.

Tim Ream

The USMNT defender who committed a handball that led to a Belgium penalty, further damaging the team's chances.

Weston McKennie

The USMNT midfielder who scored the team's opening goal with a well-taken volley.

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What they’re saying

“We knew Belgium would be a tough test, but we're disappointed we couldn't put up more of a fight. There's clearly still work to be done before the World Cup.”

— Mauricio Pochettino, USMNT Head Coach

“Jeremy was unplayable today. He's really taken his game to another level and showed why he's one of the best young talents in the world.”

— Roberto Martinez, Belgium National Team Manager

What’s next

The USMNT will look to regroup and address the defensive issues highlighted in this match as they continue their preparations for the upcoming World Cup.

The takeaway

This lopsided defeat to Belgium serves as a stark reminder that the USMNT still has significant ground to make up if they hope to compete with the world's elite soccer nations at the World Cup. The team's defensive vulnerabilities and lack of top-end talent were exposed, providing Pochettino and his staff with plenty of areas to focus on in the months ahead.