Friendlies
7:30 PMMarch 28, 2026
Friendly International
Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Referee: Esteban Ostojich, Uruguay
USA
Belgium
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0.00
Expected goals (xG)
0.00
Passing
394 (85%)
Accurate passes
379 (85%)
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1
G
Matt Turner
6.3
D
Antonee Robinson
13
D
Tim Ream (C)
6.2
22
D
Mark McKenzie
6.2
21
D
Timothy Weah
6.2
6
M
Tanner Tessmann
6.9
15
M
Johnny Cardoso
6.6
10
M
Christian Pulisic
6.7
17
M
Malik Tillman
7.0
M
Weston McKennie
39′
20
F
Folarin Balogun
6.3
Coach
Mauricio Pochettino
1
G
Senne Lammens
6.6
5
D
Maxim De Cuyper
6.9
4
D
Brandon Mechele
6.9
D
Thomas Meunier
M
Amadou Onana
53′
23
M
Nicolas Raskin
6.6
11
M
Jérémy Doku
7.2
7
M
Kevin De Bruyne (C)
7.0
M
Alexis Saelemaekers
F
Charles De Ketelaere
59′
No standings data available for this league
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – Belgium unleashed a dominant second-half display to overpower the USA 5-2 in a friendly international at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Dodi Lukebakio proved the hero for the Red Devils, scoring twice to seal a commanding victory after a close first half.
The anticipated friendly saw both nations test their squads ahead of crucial upcoming fixtures. The USA, playing on home soil, aimed to show their growing strength. Belgium arrived with their reputation as a strong European team, ready to make a statement.
The first half saw an even contest, with the home side showing flashes of promise. USA midfielder Weston McKennie received a yellow card in the 19th minute for holding. He then gave the hosts the lead in the 39th minute, guiding home a finish following a good pass from Antonee Robinson.
However, Belgium responded quickly to level the score just before the break. Zeno Debast found the net in the 45th minute, ensuring a level score at halftime. This late equalizer shifted momentum towards the visitors.
At halftime, the score was 1-1, but Belgium had started to assert themselves. The USA needed to tighten their defence and maintain their attacking impetus. However, the Red Devils emerged from the tunnel with renewed energy and tactical adjustments.
Belgium seized control immediately in the second half. Midfielder Amadou Onana fired them ahead in the 53rd minute, converting an assist from Alexis Saelemaekers. Their pressure soon brought more goals, leaving the USA defence scrambling.
Just six minutes later, Charles De Ketelaere extended Belgium’s lead from the penalty spot in the 59th minute. This goal gave the visitors a comfortable two-goal lead. Belgium then made a flurry of substitutions, adding fresh attacking options.
Substitute Dodi Lukebakio quickly made an impact, adding to the scoring in the 68th minute. He finished a precise pass from Thomas Meunier, putting Belgium in firm command. The USA also brought on several new players, seeking to change the game’s flow.
Lukebakio was not done, completing his double in the 82nd minute with another well-taken goal. His second strike underscored Belgium’s dominance and finishing ability. USA substitute Patrick Agyemang managed a late consolation goal in the 87th minute, assisted by Ricardo Pepi, but it was too little, too late.
Belgium’s victory was statistically supported, recording 21 total shots with 10 on target, while the USA had 12 shots with 5 on target. Despite the USA holding 52% possession, Belgium made their chances count. Dodi Lukebakio earned the highest rating for his two-goal performance.
This result offers a clear lesson for the USA as they continue their development on the international stage. Belgium, meanwhile, demonstrated their depth and attacking firepower, reinforcing their status as a formidable opponent in the international football landscape.
