ATLANTA — The USMNT dropped its second match of World Cup camp, falling 2-0 to Portugal at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. In a game that saw a much more aggressive effort from the U.S., the team was unable to find the back of the net despite creating several promising chances. After conceding seven goals across two matches against Belgium and Portugal, the task now falls to head coach Mauricio Pochettino and his coaching staff to construct a final roster for the World Cup — now just 73 days away.
Christian Pulisic was the story of the first half. He was noticeably more aggressive in this match compared to the Belgium game, consistently creating chances and nearly finding the back of the net on multiple occasions. Pulisic registered three shot attempts on 28 touches before picking up a yellow card in the 47th minute, ending his night after 45 minutes of play.
The USMNT came out with noticeably more intensity than they showed against Belgium. As players emphasized all week in press conferences, these are not friendlies — and that mentality was evident from the opening whistle. However, the difference in performance between the first and second halves remains a concern, as the team must learn to sustain that energy for a full 90 minutes at the World Cup level. Portugal’s Francisco Trincão scored against the run of play in the 37th minute, leaving the USMNT trailing 1-0 at halftime despite being the more aggressive side.
João Félix added a second for Portugal in the 59th minute off a corner kick to seal the result at 2-0.
It was a tough end to a difficult week — the USMNT failed to score against Portugal after conceding five goals to Belgium, raising real questions about the team’s ability to compete for a full 90 minutes against elite opposition. Matt Freese started in goal, turning in a solid performance in what amounted to a World Cup audition — and based on his showing, he may well be Pochettino’s first choice come June. With the March window now closed, Pochettino and his staff have seen firsthand where the gaps are. The work of building a competitive roster for the World Cup begins now.
Throughout the week, players repeatedly emphasized that these matches were not friendlies. Cristian Roldan said it best — “these friendlies are not friendlies.” Brenden Aaronson spoke about being mentally stronger than he was four years ago. Tim Ream wore the captain’s armband with the same steady presence he has brought to every camp. The results were not what anyone hoped for, but the evaluation process was real. Every minute played, every chance created and every goal conceded is information that Pochettino and his staff will use to shape the final roster.
The World Cup is 73 days away. The USMNT opens Group D play against Paraguay on June 12 in Los Angeles. Australia and Türkiye will round out Group D. The margin for error is gone. What happens between now and June 12 will define this team’s World Cup. Pochettino has the pieces. Now it is about putting them together.
