Key moments
In a decisive friendly match held in Atlanta on March 29, 2026, Belgium showcased their football prowess by defeating the USA with a score of 5-2. This victory extends Belgium’s unbeaten streak since March 2025, a significant achievement for the national team as they prepare for upcoming competitions.
The match began with an unexpected twist as the USA took an early lead through a goal from Weston McKennie. However, Belgium quickly responded, demonstrating their offensive strength by scoring five goals, with notable contributions from players like Folarin Balogun, who has been in excellent form, netting five goals in his last five Ligue 1 games for AS Monaco.
Belgium’s performance was particularly impressive given their recent scoring record, having accumulated 32 goals in their last nine matches. This friendly against the USA added to their tally, reinforcing their status as a formidable team in international football. In contrast, the USA, while scoring 17 goals across their last nine games, struggled to maintain their early momentum against the Belgians.
Despite the victory, Belgium faced challenges with key players. Romelu Lukaku, the team’s all-time leading goalscorer with 89 goals in 124 appearances, missed the match due to a hamstring issue. His absence was felt, but the team managed to adapt and secure a convincing win. Additionally, Thibaut Courtois is expected to be sidelined for around six weeks due to a thigh injury, further complicating Belgium’s preparations.
Belgium’s head coach, Rudi Garcia, expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance but acknowledged the need for improvement. He stated, “Success or failure isn’t just about the score. There are many more factors at play these days,” emphasizing the importance of continuous development in the team.
USA’s coach, Mauricio Pochettino, reflected on the match, saying, “I see this as a good reality check for us, because now is the moment to feel this type of situation, to improve.” His comments highlight the need for the USA to reassess their strategies as they move forward.
Historically, Belgium has had the upper hand against the USA, winning five out of their six previous encounters. Their last meeting was a 2-1 victory in the last 16 at the 2014 World Cup, and this latest match further cements their dominance in this rivalry.
As both teams look ahead, Belgium aims to build on this momentum while the USA will need to regroup and address their shortcomings. The reactions from both coaches indicate a shared understanding of the challenges ahead and the importance of learning from each match.