Heavy Defeat for World Cup Co-Hosts USA: Mauricio Pochettino's Team Crumbles Against Belgium Despite Early Lead
The United States national team, co-hosts of the upcoming summer World Cup, appears to be still some way from being ready for the tournament. In a recent friendly match against Kevin De Bruyne and his Belgian squad, the US suffered a significant setback after a promising start.
Just 75 days before the World Cup kicks off on home soil, alongside Mexico and Canada, the US team experienced a sobering 2:5 (1:1) defeat against Belgium in Atlanta. The second half, in particular, saw a very weak performance from the USA, which included Bayer Leverkusen's Malik Tilman in the starting lineup.
Former Schalke player Weston McKennie had given the hosts the lead in the 39th minute. However, Belgium quickly responded, with Zeno Debast leveling the score just before halftime in the 45th minute.
Belgium Steps Up Dominance in the Second Half
After the break, Belgium took control, with goals from Amadou Onana (53rd minute), Charles De Ketelaere (59th minute, penalty kick due to handball), and former Bundesliga professional Dodi Lukebakio (68th, 82nd minutes), who scored twice. Patrick Agyemang managed a late consolation goal for the USA in the 87th minute.
Coach Mauricio Pochettino's team is set to compete in World Cup Group D against Australia, Paraguay, and the winner of the Kosovo/Turkey playoff. Belgium will play in Group G against Egypt, Iran, and New Zealand.
FIFA World Cup 2026: Schedule
Date |
Round |
|---|---|
June 11 to 27 |
Group Stage |
June 28 to July 3 |
Round of 32 |
July 4 to 7 |
Round of 16 |
July 9 to 11 |
Quarter-finals |
July 14 to 15 |
Semi-finals |
July 18 |
Third-Place Play-off |
July 19 |
Final |
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