The positive momentum from the United States men’s national team’s strong finish to 2025 felt distant by the time the final whistle signaled a 5-2 defeat against Belgium in Atlanta on Saturday.
While the Yanks demonstrated promise in the first half, they faltered in the second half as Jeremy Doku of Manchester City and his former teammate Kevin De Bruyne dismantled Mauricio Pochettino’s squad with their speed and precision.
MORE — Recap, video highlights from USMNT v Belgium
During the first half, Belgium managed nearly 60% possession and directed 13 of their 21 shot attempts, while the Americans struggled with only three shots in the second half, despite holding 66% of the ball. The Red Devils hit the target with six of their seven shots.
Weston McKennie initially put the USMNT ahead with a goal, but Zeno Debast equalized before halftime. Belgium surged in the second half, with Amadou Onana scoring to give them a lead they wouldn’t relinquish. Charles De Ketelaere converted a penalty, and Dodi Lukebakio netted two goals off the bench. Patrick Agyemang later reduced the deficit to 5-2 in the 87th minute.
USMNT vs Belgium Player Ratings
Matt Turner: 6.5 — Could he have blocked Debast’s low shot through traffic? Opinions may vary, but he made a crucial two-handed save soon after to maintain a 1-1 score. He was outstanding with a double save just before the penalty and recorded five stops overall, though he was left exposed on four of the five goals.
Timothy Weah (Off 64′): 4.5 — With Sergino Dest sidelined, Weah faced a tough task as a right back in a four-man defense, especially against Doku. He struggled with his opponent but had some promising moments in attack early in the second half, though he missed a great opportunity in the 55th minute.
Mark McKenzie: 5 — A quiet performance for a player who had the second-most touches of the game leading into the final 10 minutes. He made a strong tackle late in the match.
Tim Ream: 5.5 — Two blocks in the first half but gave away a penalty for handball in the second half. He was adept at navigating defensive threats, second only to Robinson.
Antonee Robinson (Off 64′): 7.5 — Great to see him back on the field. “Jedi” assisted on the opening goal with a well-delivered corner and was very active on the left flank.
Johnny Cardoso (Off, HT): 6 — Completed all 13 passes but was slow to confront Doku at one point in the 18-yard box. His halftime substitution was perplexing: was it planned, or did Pochettino not rate the Atlético Madrid player?
Tanner Tessmann (Off 64′): 6.5 — Created a solid opportunity, used his size effectively in midfield, and showcased good pace.
Weston McKennie (Off 71′): 7 — His brilliant run and calm finish from Robinson’s corner could have led to multiple first-half goals were it not for Senne Lammens.
Malik Tillman (Off 71′): 6.5 — Couldn’t block Onana’s powerful shot but was involved in every play he could access and exhibited aerial strength.
Christian Pulisic (Off 71′): 5 — Had a brief moment of brilliance in the second half but otherwise had a forgettable game, winning just 1 of 6 duels and failing on 3 of 4 take-ons.
Folarin Balogun (Off 71′): 6 — Managed only one shot on target, contributing just 14 touches in roughly 70 minutes.
Substitutes
Cristian Roldan (On for Cardoso, HT): 6 — Displayed good ball control and won his duels, but can you truly have a good day on the pitch when four goals are conceded in one half?
Sebastian Berhalter (On for Tessmann, 64′): 5.5 — Had a poor clearance attempt on Lukebakio’s second goal, but it was a challenging ball — should he have cleared for a corner instead of attempting a back heel?
Max Arfsten (On for Robinson, 64′): 5 — Struggled against Lukebakio on both goals, seeming to chase the ball on the second.
Alex Freeman (On for Weah, 64′): 6.5 — Showed promise with the ball.
Giovanni Reyna (On for Pulisic, 71′): 6 — Recorded just 12 touches during his limited time on the field.
Ricardo Pepi (On for Tillman, 71′): 7 — Pressed Tielemans effectively, leading to Agyemang’s opportunity/goal.
Joe Scally (On for McKennie, 71′): 6.5 — Looked solid on the ball and performed decently on the right, but didn’t face Doku.
Patrick Agyemang (On for Balogun, 71′): 7 — Took advantage of a clear opportunity.