The USMNT were thrashed 5–2 by Belgium in Saturday’s international friendly at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, a poor outcome for the Americans seeking to already be near top form with the 2026 World Cup just over 70 days away.
It was a bizarre and unexpected reality check for the U.S., who had a solid first-half performance and even opened the game’s scoring with a leaping volley from USMNT star Weston McKennie in the 39th minute. The home side quickly collapsed in the second half, though, with Belgium merciless in showing why they are No. 9 in FIFA World Rankings.
