Portugal and the United States are set to face each other in an international friendly match in Atlanta. This game takes place on Wednesday, April 1, as both teams gear up for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Historical Context of USA vs. Portugal Matches
The USA has a strong historical record against Portugal. In their six previous encounters, both teams have claimed two victories each, with three matches ending in draws. Notably, the USA has not lost to Portugal in 36 years, maintaining an unbeaten run in competitive matches since the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
Match Details
- Date: Wednesday, April 1
- Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
- Last Meeting: Portugal 1 – 1 USA, November 14, 2017
USA Team Updates
The American squad, under head coach Mauricio Pochettino, features a 27-man roster that includes key players like Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie. However, the team will miss captain Tyler Adams due to an MCL injury. Additionally, Sergiño Dest, Haji Wright, and Miles Robinson are all sidelined with muscle strains.
Pochettino is considering a goalkeeper rotation, likely starting Matt Freese over Matt Turner, who faced challenges in the recent loss to Belgium. The coach aims to enhance defensive stability and evaluate depth players ahead of the World Cup.
Portugal Team Updates
Roberto Martínez’s Portugal is also facing several injuries, notably missing Cristiano Ronaldo due to a hamstring issue. Other key players, such as Ruben Dias and Bernardo Silva, are managing discomfort and may not participate. Diogo Costa is a doubt due to an adductor problem.
Bruno Fernandes remains a pivotal leader as Portugal looks to build depth in its squad, potentially giving younger players like Vitinha and João Neves more playing time in this friendly match.
Form and Recent Performances
USA Form
- Last 5 Matches: DWWWL
- Notable Result: Lost 5-2 to Belgium on March 28
In that match against Belgium, the USA initially took the lead with a goal from McKennie but struggled defensively, allowing 21 shots.
Portugal Form
- Last 5 Matches: WDLWD
- Notable Result: Drew 0-0 against Mexico
Despite dominating possession against Mexico, Portugal struggled to convert chances, managing only two shots on target from ten attempts.
Predicted Lineups
USA
- Freese
- Weah, Richards, McKenzie, A. Robinson
- Tessmann, Roldan
- Pulisic, McKennie, Reyna
- Pepi
Portugal
- R. Silva
- Cancelo, Inacio, Veiga, Mendes
- Neves, Vitinha
- Neto, B. Fernandes, Felix
- Ramos
Viewing Options for USA vs. Portugal
This exciting friendly match will be broadcast live in the UK on Premier Sports 2. In the United States, fans can watch on TNT, truTV, HBO Max, and Peacock, with Spanish broadcasts available on Telemundo and Universo.
