Friendlies
11:00 PMMarch 31, 2026
Friendly International
USA
Portugal
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0.00
Expected goals (xG)
0.00
Passing
153 (84%)
Accurate passes
253 (88%)
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3
D
Chris Richards (C)
Coach
Mauricio Pochettino
Coach
Roberto Martínez Montoliú
No standings data available for this league
Portugal secured a confident 2-0 victory over hosts USA at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with goals from Trincao and Joao Felix highlighting a clinical display from the European side.
Portugal demonstrated their attacking prowess against the USA on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, cruising to a comfortable 2-0 win in an international friendly. Francisco Trincao and João Felix were the heroes for the visitors, each finding the net with decisive finishes.
This fixture served as a crucial test for both nations as they prepared for upcoming international challenges. For the USA, co-hosts of the 2026 World Cup, it was a chance to measure progress against top European opposition. Portugal, meanwhile, sought to continue building momentum with their blend of experienced stars and rising talent.
The first half began with Portugal asserting control, dominating possession and dictating the tempo. Their patient build-up play often tested the USA’s defensive resolve. The home side struggled to retain the ball for sustained periods early on.
João Cancelo received the game’s first yellow card in the 34th minute for a tactical foul, breaking up a USA counter-attack. The match saw a physical edge developing. Opportunities remained scarce for the Americans.
Portugal broke the deadlock just three minutes later, in the 37th minute. Francisco Trincao, after a neat pass from Bruno Fernandes, curled a precise shot past Matthew Freese, giving Portugal a deserved lead. It was a well-worked goal that underlined Portugal’s efficiency.
USA captain Christian Pulisic was booked for a foul in stoppage time, 45+3 minutes, as frustration began to show. The whistle blew shortly after, with Portugal holding a one-goal advantage. The home crowd remained hopeful for a second-half turnaround.
At the interval, USA coach Gregg Berhalter likely sought more attacking intent and better ball retention from his squad. Portugal, however, would have felt content with their lead. Both teams made significant changes at halftime, with Portugal introducing seven new players and the USA bringing on three, including Pulisic being replaced by P. Agyemang.
The wholesale changes at the break saw a largely fresh set of players take the field. Portugal, despite bringing on seven new faces, maintained their composed passing game. Antonee Robinson and Weston McKennie also entered the fray for the USA. The home side still found it challenging to penetrate the Portuguese defense.
Portugal doubled their lead in the 59th minute through João Felix. Once again, Bruno Fernandes was the architect, delivering another incisive pass. Felix calmly slotted the ball home, extending the visitors’ advantage to 2-0.
The USA pushed for a response, introducing Timothy Weah and Malik Tillman in the 67th minute to inject fresh energy into their attack. However, clear-cut chances remained elusive. Portugal’s defense stood firm against any American pressure.
The final quarter of the match saw a flurry of further substitutions from both benches. Portugal managed the game effectively, denying the USA any genuine opportunities to get back into the contest. They showed maturity and control until the final whistle.
Portugal’s victory was built on their statistical dominance, controlling 61% of possession and completing 88% of their passes. Despite this, both teams registered only two shots on target. The USA had more total shots with seven compared to Portugal’s three, but lacked the clinical edge to convert them. Portugal’s goalkeeper, José Sá, made two saves to USA’s one by Matthew Freese.
This 2-0 friendly defeat serves as a valuable lesson for the USA as they continue their preparations for the 2026 World Cup. Portugal, on the other hand, will take confidence from their efficient performance and solid defensive display.