USMNT Looks to Bounce Back Against Portugal After Belgium Defeat

Pochettino sees Saturday's loss as a wake-up call for his squad ahead of the World Cup

Mar. 30, 2026 at 8:33pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented soccer match, with overlapping shapes and planes representing the dynamic action on the field.The USMNT's loss to Belgium serves as a crucial learning experience as the team prepares to face Portugal in a high-intensity match ahead of the World Cup.Atlanta Today

The U.S. men's national team is ready to reset and refocus after a disappointing 5-2 loss to Belgium in their last match. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino is using the defeat as a learning experience, comparing it to the discipline required for weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. The team is treating Tuesday's match against Portugal as more than just a friendly, determined to right the ship and build momentum before the World Cup.

Why it matters

The USMNT's performance against Belgium exposed some weaknesses that need to be addressed before the World Cup. Pochettino is using this as a teachable moment for his squad, stressing the importance of sustained effort and discipline as they prepare for the global stage.

The details

The Yanks outplayed Belgium in the first half and took a deserved lead, but were unable to maintain that level of play. Pochettino likened this to a dieter declaring premature victory after shedding a few pounds, only to indulge in unhealthy foods. The coach wants his players to understand that the 'intention to win' is just the beginning, and that true success requires discipline and relentless effort.

  • The USMNT lost to Belgium 5-2 on Saturday, March 25, 2026.
  • The USMNT will face Portugal in an international friendly on Tuesday, March 28, 2026.

The players

Mauricio Pochettino

The head coach of the U.S. men's national team, known for his colorful and philosophical approach to the game.

Tim Ream

A veteran player for the USMNT and Charlotte FC, who emphasized the need for relentless effort from the team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'Listen, first and foremost, these aren't friendlies. That's something that Mauricio has made very clear to all of us. It's more of a non-official game.'”

— Tim Ream, USMNT and Charlotte FC player

“'I want to lose weight. I want. I can. 'I want' is only the beginning. But after you need to have discipline. Not the intention to eat the nice food, and everything like this … 'I won, I won! I won!' But then, it's nice, no? The chicken, the steak, the lasagna, the pasta.'”

— Mauricio Pochettino, USMNT Head Coach

What’s next

The USMNT will face Portugal in an international friendly on Tuesday, March 28, 2026, as they continue their preparations for the upcoming World Cup.

The takeaway

Pochettino's comparison of the USMNT's performance to weight loss and healthy lifestyle principles highlights his desire to instill a sense of discipline and relentless effort in his squad. The team is determined to learn from the Belgium defeat and use the Portugal match as an opportunity to reset and build momentum ahead of the World Cup.