The U.S. men’s national team’s winless run against European opposition continued on Tuesday, closing a disappointing March window.
Goals from Francisco Trincao and Joao Felix propelled Portugal past the USMNT by a 2-0 scoreline at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. The result extended the USMNT’s winless run against European opposition to 10 matches, dating back to December 2021.
“Obviously we’re disappointed with the results,” USMNT star attacker Christian Pulisic said in a postmatch interview on TNT. “I think we are a lot closer than it may seem. I still feel positive and have belief in this team.”
Matt Freese was busy early, denying Bruno Fernandes’ low drive from the right side of the 18-yard box. Fernandes unleashed a powerful right-footed shot across the box, but watched as Freese dove to repel the in-form Manchester United midfielder’s attempt.
Jose Sa’s first save of the match came in the 22nd minute as Sebastian Berhalter tested his luck from long-range. Berhalter’s shot was gathered by Sa, who dove to his right to deny the Vancouver Whitecaps midfielder.
Despite a positive start from the Americans, Portugal punished the hosts after a USMNT giveaway.
Weston McKennie’s layoff pass was intercepted by Portugal, allowing Vitinha to spring Fernandes upfield. Fernandes eventually played a back heel to Trincao in the box before the Sporting Lisbon attacker curled a shot into the far corner.
It marked Trincao’s third international goal for his country.
Pochettino made three changes at halftime with Max Arfsten, Tanner Tessmann, and Patrick Agyemang all entering the field. However, it was Portugal’s substitutions who made a difference as the match went on.
Joao Felix came off the bench and delivered Portugal’s second goal before the hour mark. Fernandes picked out Felix atop the USMNT box on a corner kick before the 26-year-old took two touches and struck home off the left post and in.
Gio Reyna, Brenden Aaronson, and Folarin Balogun were among the further substitutions made by Pochettino, but regardless, the USMNT failed to get back into the match.
Freese was one of the lone bright spots, finishing with three saves. Chris Richards was the lone USMNT outfield player to play the full 90 minutes.
“Unfortunate result tonight leaves me and us wanting more,” Freese said in a TNT interview. “We have the belief that we can do more. We did have some positives. I think it’s about continuing to work together, be detailed in fine moments. A few minor things were the difference tonight and if those are switched, maybe things are different.”
The USMNT will return to action in late-May when they begin their final window against Senegal and Germany. Pochettino will first name his World Cup roster on May 26 before their prep match schedule begins five days later.