When could the USMNT play Portugal?
Possibly in March 2026.
Yanuki
ARTICLE DETAIL
Cristiano Ronaldo to Possibly Play in USMNT Friendly | Sarri Voices Frustration Over Mandas Transfer and Empty Stadium in Lazio-Sassuolo Clash | Derby della Madonnina: A Historic Clash with Scudetto Implications | Genoa vs Roma: Team News, Injuries, and Emerging Talent | FA Cup Quarter-Final Draw: Chelsea, Liverpool, and Wrexham's Journey | USWNT Secures 2026 SheBelieves Cup Title: Key Takeaways | Atlanta United's Home Opener: Reunion with Tata Martino and Match Preview vs. Real Salt Lake | Toronto FC Acquires Defender Benjamín Kuscevic on Loan | Charlotte FC Returns Home, Coach Voices Schedule Concerns | Cristiano Ronaldo to Possibly Play in USMNT Friendly | Sarri Voices Frustration Over Mandas Transfer and Empty Stadium in Lazio-Sassuolo Clash | Derby della Madonnina: A Historic Clash with Scudetto Implications | Genoa vs Roma: Team News, Injuries, and Emerging Talent | FA Cup Quarter-Final Draw: Chelsea, Liverpool, and Wrexham's Journey | USWNT Secures 2026 SheBelieves Cup Title: Key Takeaways | Atlanta United's Home Opener: Reunion with Tata Martino and Match Preview vs. Real Salt Lake | Toronto FC Acquires Defender Benjamín Kuscevic on Loan | Charlotte FC Returns Home, Coach Voices Schedule Concerns
Soccer / World Cup
Cristiano Ronaldo to Possibly Play in USMNT Friendly
Cristiano Ronaldo could be making a return to the United States to play in a friendly match against the U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT) in March 2026. This would be his first appearance on U.S. soil since 2014.
Key Insights
- The USMNT is in advanced discussions to host Portugal in an exhibition match in March 2026, potentially at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
- A friendly against Belgium is also being considered during the same international window.
- Ronaldo has not played in the U.S. since August 2014.
- The U.S. is preparing to co-host the 2026 World Cup, with matches in multiple cities.
- Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium will host eight matches at the 2026 World Cup.
In-Depth Analysis
The U.S. Soccer Federation is working to finalize a friendly match between the USMNT and Portugal, captained by Cristiano Ronaldo, to be held in March 2026. Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium is the leading candidate to host the game. The USMNT is also considering a friendly against Belgium during the same international window. These matches are contingent on both Portugal and Belgium qualifying for the 2026 World Cup without needing to participate in European playoffs.
Ronaldo's possible return to the U.S. marks his first appearance since August 2, 2014, when he played for Real Madrid against Manchester United in Michigan. He also played for Portugal in the U.S. in an exhibition game against the Republic of Ireland at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey that summer. The 40-year-old remains a key player for Portugal, recently scoring twice against Armenia in World Cup qualifying.
Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home to the Atlanta Falcons (NFL) and Atlanta United (MLS), is set to host eight matches at the 2026 World Cup. The city has a strong track record of supporting soccer, as demonstrated by the U.S. Women’s National Team drawing over 50,000 fans to the stadium for a friendly match last year.
The USMNT will use the new U.S. Soccer training facility in Fayetteville, GA, before heading to their World Cup base camp in Southern California. Their group stage matches are scheduled for June 12, June 19, and June 26, with one match in Seattle and two at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
FAQ
Where might the match be held?
Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium is a likely venue.
When was the last time Ronaldo played in the U.S.A.?
August 2014.
Takeaways
- Keep an eye out for official announcements regarding the USMNT friendly match against Portugal.
- The game presents a great chance to see Ronaldo play in the U.S.
- This match is an important preparation step for the USMNT as they gear up for the 2026 World Cup.
Discussion
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Sources
Disclaimer
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