The United States men's national team fell 2-0 to Portugal in a Tuesday friendly at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, marking its eighth consecutive loss to European opposition. Francisco Trincão opened the scoring in the first half before João Félix doubled the lead with a curled volley from the edge of the box in the 54th minute. The match closed out the U.S. March international window following a 5-2 defeat to Belgium, and head coach Mauricio Pochettino made six lineup changes from that loss, including starting Christian Pulisic in a central attacking role. Pulisic was pulled at halftime, failing to score in his eighth straight appearance for the U.S. and remaining without a goal for AC Milan since December 28. Portugal played without Cristiano Ronaldo and Bernardo Silva but still dominated possession and created consistent pressure. U.S. goalkeeper Matthew Freese, starting ahead of Matt Turner, made several key saves to prevent a heavier defeat. The U.S. will continue World Cup preparations with friendlies against Senegal on May 31 and Germany on June 6. The team opens its World Cup campaign on June 12 against Paraguay in Inglewood, California, followed by matches against Australia and Türkiye.
Pulisic being substituted at halftime after yet another goalless outing signals growing concern, not just form. When a player of his caliber starts centrally and still fails to impact, it suggests the system isn't unlocking his strengths. This isn't just a slump — it's a warning that Pochettino must find alignment before June 12.
