The United States Soccer Federation (USSF) is making progress in its efforts to arrange two high-impact friendlies in March 2026, which will serve as key preparation for the World Cup to be held in the U.S., Mexico and Canada. The opponents would be Portugal and Belgium, two top-level teams that would represent a highly demanding challenge for the USMNT.
The possible main venue would be the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, one of the confirmed venues for the 2026 World Cup, with a capacity of more than 70,000 fans.
Cristiano Ronaldo, the big attraction
The name that generates the most expectation is that of Cristiano Ronaldo, who could play in the United States for the first time since 2014, when he toured with Real Madrid.
Now, as Portugal’s captain and the most important figure in the history of his national team, the return of the Portuguese star would be one of the most mediatic sporting events for the U.S. Hispanic community.
Their presence will not only attract Portuguese and Latin fans, but also represents a boost for the U.S. soccer market in the run-up to the World Cup.
Belgium, a world-class competitor
El nombre que más expectativa genera es el de Cristiano Ronaldo
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The other possible opponent is Belgium, a team that remains among the best in the FIFA ranking.
With the likes of Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku, the Belgians would provide a highly competitive duel.
These matches would be the last international window before the World Cup.
This means that both Portugal and Belgium would arrive with practically defined squads, including Cristiano Ronaldo, and focused on fine-tuning their strategy.
What it means for the USMNT
Buzzy
For Mauricio Pochettino’s team, current USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino, facing elite opponents is essential.
The United States needs to measure its growth after its participation in the Copa America 2025, where it left doubts about its performance.
Playing against Cristiano Ronaldo and a powerhouse like Belgium will allow the coach to evaluate his players in high-pressure scenarios, similar to those they will face at the World Cup.
For Hispanic fans living in cities such as Atlanta, Miami, New York, Houston and Los Angeles, these friendlies represent a unique opportunity to see world stars in action without having to travel abroad.
In addition, Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to U.S. soil has a symbolic value: it shows how international soccer recognizes the growth of the Latino market in the U.S., which is key to the success of the 2026 World Cup.
The Mercedes-Benz Stadium will not only be the home of these friendlies, but also of several World Cup matches.
The venue, home of Atlanta United (MLS) and the Falcons (NFL), is one of the most modern stadiums in the country and has been chosen by FIFA to host eight games of the 2026 World Cup.
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