USMNT Loses Two Friendlies, RSL Gives Back During Break

Spence Checketts and Brian Dunseth analyze the national team's struggles and recap Real Salt Lake's community efforts.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 3:06am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a soccer match or training session, with players and the field broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of navy, red, and yellow, capturing the complex emotions and dynamics of the sport.The USMNT's struggles and RSL's community spirit both come into focus through a cubist lens.Salt Lake City Today

The United States Men's National Soccer Team suffered back-to-back losses in international friendly matches this week, falling 5-2 to Belgium on Saturday and 2-0 to Portugal on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Real Salt Lake players and staff spent their recent break from MLS action giving back to the local community in Salt Lake City.

Why it matters

The USMNT's poor performances in these tune-up games raise concerns about the team's preparation and competitiveness ahead of major tournaments. On the other hand, RSL's community outreach efforts during the break demonstrate the club's commitment to its local fanbase and the importance of professional athletes using their platform to make a positive impact.

The details

The USMNT was thoroughly outmatched in both losses, struggling to generate offense and leaving too many defensive gaps. Head coach Gregg Berhalter will need to make adjustments before the team's next competitive matches. In contrast, RSL players and staff volunteered at local food banks, visited children's hospitals, and participated in other charitable initiatives during their time off, strengthening the club's bond with the Salt Lake City community.

  • The USMNT lost 5-2 to Belgium on Saturday, April 1, 2026.
  • The USMNT lost 2-0 to Portugal on Tuesday, April 4, 2026.
  • RSL players and staff spent their recent break from MLS action giving back to the local community in Salt Lake City.

The players

Gregg Berhalter

Head coach of the United States Men's National Soccer Team.

Pablo Mastroeni

Head coach of Real Salt Lake.

Max Kirkvliet

Goalkeeper for Real Salt Lake.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We have a lot of work to do to get this team ready for the challenges ahead.”

— Gregg Berhalter, Head coach, USMNT

“Giving back to the community is a core part of our club's values, and the players were eager to make a difference during the break.”

— Pablo Mastroeni, Head coach, Real Salt Lake

What’s next

The USMNT will look to bounce back in their next set of friendlies, while Real Salt Lake will aim to carry their community spirit into the upcoming MLS season.

The takeaway

The USMNT's recent losses highlight the need for continued development and preparation, while Real Salt Lake's community outreach efforts during the break demonstrate the positive impact professional sports teams can have on their local communities.