The U.S. men’s national soccer team suffered a disappointing 5-2 defeat at home against Belgium during a friendly match held at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday.
In a competitive first half, the U.S. took the lead in the 39th minute when Weston McKennie scored from close range after a corner delivered by Antonee Robinson. However, Belgium equalized just before halftime with a powerful strike from Zeno Debast that got past American goalkeeper Matt Turner.
Following the break, Belgium took complete control of the match. Quick goals by Amadou Onana (53rd minute), Charles De Ketelaere (penalty in the 59th), and Dodi Lukebakio (goals in the 68th and 82nd minutes) dampened the spirits of the crowd as Belgium showcased their dominance against a U.S. team that struggled in all areas. Despite making eight substitutions, the U.S. managed to score a consolation goal when Ricardo Pepi assisted Patrick Agyemang, who scored in the 87th minute.
Next, U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino and his squad will focus on their upcoming friendly against Portugal, scheduled for next Tuesday.
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– What is it like to play under Pochettino? USMNT players share their thoughts
Manager Rating
Mauricio Pochettino, 3: While it’s tough to hold Pochettino entirely accountable, as his only significant adjustment was putting Turner in goal, the team showcased competitiveness in the first half but struggled in one-on-one situations. The squad needed better motivation and leadership from the coach, especially as they lost composure throughout the match.
Player Ratings (0-10; 10 = best, 5 = average)
GK Matt Turner, 3: How do you assess a keeper who made several critical saves yet let in five goals? His shot-stopping skills were overshadowed by the barrage of high-caliber shots he faced.
DF Tim Weah, 2: While he initially kept pace with Jérémy Doku for the first 20-25 minutes, Weah struggled to match his creativity afterwards. His fatigue was evident, leading to his substitution in the 64th minute.
DF Mark McKenzie, 3: He won a few duels and contributed defensively but struggled to contain Belgium’s attacks that effortlessly maneuvered around him.
DF Tim Ream, 2: Although he displayed solid long-range passing, his decision-making faltered during crucial moments that led to Belgian goals, including a handball that resulted in their third goal.
DF Antonee Robinson, 7: The standout performer for the U.S., Robinson may have been average defensively, but his offensive contributions on the left were significant, culminating in a well-deserved assist from a first-half corner.
MF Tanner Tessmann, 4: He created several key opportunities and provided essential defensive tackles, though he was often subdued in midfield, and the team needed a stronger presence from him.
MF Johnny Cardoso, 4: After previously underperforming, Cardoso showed brief flashes of effectiveness with his movement and accurate passing. Coach Pochettino noted his halftime substitution was due to discomfort the player experienced earlier in the week.
AM Weston McKennie, 6: McKennie scored the team’s opening goal, initiated several dangerous attacks, and linked well with the forwards, marking him as one of the few bright spots in the match.
AM Malik Tillman, 3: The youngest member of the starting eleven, Tillman’s performance was underwhelming. His critical role behind the striker saw him go largely unnoticed during significant portions of the game. He could have done more to help mitigate Belgium’s second goal.
AM Christian Pulisic, 3: While he deserves credit for contributing defensively, Pulisic’s attacking influence was minimal after a promising start to the second half.
FW Folarin Balogun, 3: A quiet match for Balogun, who managed one shot on target during the first half but became less involved as the game progressed.
Substitutes (Players introduced after 70 minutes do not receive a rating)
MF Cristian Roldan, 4 (on for Cardoso, halftime): The Seattle Sounders FC midfielder had minimal impact but is credited with making several defensive contributions.
MF Sebastian Berhalter, 3 (on for Tessmann, 64′): Failed to make a significant impact and should have done better in preventing Belgium’s fifth goal.
DF Alex Freeman, 4 (on for Weah, 64′): Despite a few defensive recoveries and tackles, Freeman struggled with possession and was unable to advance the ball effectively.
DF Max Arfsten, 2 (on for Robinson, 64′): Proved to be a defensive liability on Belgium’s fourth and fifth goals.
AM Gio Reyna, N/R (on for McKennie, 70′): Contributed minimally aside from a few passes in the opposition’s half.
FW Ricardo Pepi, N/R (on for Balogun, 71′): Assisted Agyemang’s goal.
FW Patrick Agyemang, N/R (on for Tillman, 71′): Scored the consolation goal and appeared keen for a second chance late in the match.
DF Joe Scally, N/R (on for Pulisic, 71′): Had limited influence during his short time on the field, losing both ground duels and receiving a booking for a foul.