USA 0, Portugal 2: Decisive loss, Pulisic struggles cap last pre-World Cup window

The U.S. men's national team fell to a second straight European power in similar fashion, leaving much to do as the World Cup nears

Apr. 1, 2026 at 1:05am

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The U.S. men's national team lost to Portugal 2-0 in a friendly match, continuing their struggles against top European teams ahead of the World Cup. Christian Pulisic, the U.S. star, had another disappointing performance, failing to capitalize on his chances. The game followed a similar pattern to the team's previous loss against Belgium, with the U.S. starting strong but then losing control after the hydration break as the opponents made tactical adjustments.

Why it matters

The back-to-back losses against Belgium and Portugal have exposed the U.S. team's vulnerabilities, particularly in their ability to adapt to in-game tactical changes by their opponents. As the World Cup approaches, the team will need to address these issues and find ways to counter the adjustments made by top European teams.

The details

The U.S. started the game brightly, creating several chances, but Portugal gradually took control of the game. In the 36th minute, a U.S. turnover led to Portugal's opening goal, scored by Francisco Trincão. After the break, Portugal struck again in the 59th minute, with João Félix scoring from outside the box. The U.S. never looked capable of getting back into the game, and the atmosphere at Mercedes-Benz Stadium felt 'dead' by the midway point of the second half.

  • The U.S. had hoped to respond to Saturday's 5-2 loss to Belgium.
  • In the 36th minute, a few scruffy passes led to a U.S. turnover, resulting in Portugal's opening goal.
  • In the 59th minute, Portugal struck again, with João Félix scoring from outside the box.

The players

Christian Pulisic

The U.S. star, who has struggled to find the net for the national team since 2024, was moved to a center forward position in an attempt to get him out of his rut. However, he continued to struggle in front of goal, missing several chances.

Mauricio Pochettino

The U.S. coach, who took over in 2024, spoke about tweaking Pulisic's position in an attempt to help the player find his scoring touch.

Vitinha

The Portuguese midfielder, whose quick pass set up the opening goal for Portugal.

Bruno Fernandes

The Portuguese midfielder, who assisted on the opening goal scored by Trincão.

Francisco Trincão

The Portuguese forward, who scored the opening goal for his team.

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What they’re saying

“We know that he can score. Maybe we help a little bit, [and move him] a little bit closer to the goal.”

— Mauricio Pochettino, U.S. coach

What’s next

The U.S. team will need to address the issues exposed in these two losses against top European teams as they prepare for the upcoming World Cup. Coach Pochettino and his staff will need to find ways to help the team adapt to in-game tactical changes by their opponents and improve their ability to counter and get back into games.

The takeaway

The back-to-back losses against Belgium and Portugal have highlighted the U.S. team's vulnerabilities, particularly their struggle to adapt to in-game tactical changes by their opponents. As the World Cup approaches, the team will need to find ways to address these issues and improve their ability to counter and get back into games against top European teams.