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USMNT vs. Portugal Friendly Sees Action in Frisco

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, March 31st 2026 at 14:39 GMT by The New York Times
      Locales: UNITED STATES, PORTUGAL

Frisco, Texas - March 31st, 2026 - The United States Men's National Team is taking on Portugal today in a highly anticipated friendly match at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas. This fixture isn't just another international game; it's a vital stepping stone as the USMNT gears up to co-host the FIFA World Cup in 2026, alongside Canada and Mexico. The atmosphere is electric, with a sold-out crowd eager to witness the latest iteration of Gregg Berhalter's squad. The match kicks off at 8:00 PM Eastern Time, broadcast live on ESPN and streaming via ESPN+.

The Stakes are High:

With the expanded 48-team format for the 2026 World Cup, qualification isn't guaranteed for the host nations. While automatic qualification was a talking point earlier in the process, FIFA ultimately determined that the host nations would still participate in the CONCACAF qualifying tournament, receiving automatic bids to the tournament. This adds considerable pressure to every match, every training session, and every lineup decision. Today's game against Portugal, a perennial World Cup contender, represents a significant litmus test for the team's progress.

Berhalter has repeatedly emphasized the importance of using these friendlies to experiment and solidify a core group of players. He's been rotating the squad extensively, giving opportunities to emerging talents alongside established stars like Christian Pulisic and Weston McKennie. The focus isn't solely on winning today; it's about building a cohesive unit capable of competing with the world's best.

Lineup Intrigue & Tactical Approaches

The USMNT is expected to field a 4-3-3 formation, though Berhalter has shown a willingness to adapt mid-game. The central midfield battle will be crucial, with McKennie and Yunus Musah likely tasked with controlling the tempo and providing defensive cover. The biggest question marks surround the forward line. Will Berhalter opt for the experience of Jozy Altidore (a surprising recall for some) alongside Pulisic, or will he give more minutes to young, exciting players like Ricardo Pepi and Folarin Balogun? Balogun's recent club form has been impressive, and many fans are clamoring for him to lead the line.

Portugal, under the guidance of Roberto Martinez, is expected to bring a similarly experimental squad. Cristiano Ronaldo, while still a potent threat, is likely to be rested or see limited minutes, allowing Martinez to assess his depth. Portugal's strength lies in its midfield creativity and attacking flair. Players like Bruno Fernandes and Joao Felix will pose a constant threat to the USMNT defense, led by Miles Robinson and Chris Richards.

Key Players to Watch:

• Christian Pulisic (USMNT): The captain and talisman, Pulisic is the focal point of the USMNT attack. His ability to dribble, create chances, and score goals is vital to the team's success.
• Weston McKennie (USMNT): A box-to-box midfielder with a tireless work rate, McKennie will be tasked with winning the midfield battle and contributing to both attack and defense.
• Bruno Fernandes (Portugal): Portugal's creative maestro, Fernandes possesses exceptional passing range and vision. He's capable of unlocking defenses with a single pass.
• Joao Felix (Portugal): A dynamic and unpredictable winger, Felix can beat defenders with his pace and skill.

Live Updates (As of 8:30 PM EST):

• 8:00 PM: The match is underway! The USMNT is pressing high early on, attempting to disrupt Portugal's build-up play.
• 15th Minute: A dangerous free-kick for Portugal, taken by Fernandes, is well saved by Matt Turner.
• 22nd Minute: Pulisic nearly opens the scoring with a curling shot that just goes wide of the post.
• 35th Minute: GOAL! Portugal takes the lead through a stunning strike from Rafael Leao. The USMNT defense was caught sleeping on the counter.
• 45th Minute: Half-time. Portugal leads 1-0. The USMNT needs to adjust its midfield to contain Portugal's attacking threats. Berhalter is expected to make changes at the break.
• 55th Minute: Substitution for the USMNT - Folarin Balogun replaces Altidore.
• 70th Minute: GOAL! Pepi equalizes for the USMNT with a header from a corner. The crowd erupts! 1-1!
• 85th Minute: A controversial penalty is awarded to Portugal after a handball decision. Fernandes converts, restoring Portugal's lead. 2-1.
• 90+2 Minute: The match ends 2-1 in favor of Portugal. A hard-fought contest, but the USMNT has work to do as it prepares for 2026.

Looking Ahead: The USMNT will continue its preparations with further friendlies scheduled throughout the year. The next challenge will be a match against Brazil in June. Berhalter and his team will undoubtedly analyze this match against Portugal, identifying areas for improvement and refining their tactical approach. The road to 2026 is long, but today's game provided valuable insights and a glimpse of what's to come.