
friendly
11:00 p.mMarch 31, 2026
International friendly


USA


Portugal
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0.00
Expected Goals (xG)
0.00
Passing by
153 (84%)
Accurate passes
253 (88%)
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3
d
Chris Richards (C)
6.3
trainer
Mauricio Pochettino
trainer
Roberto MartÃnez Montoliu
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Portugal cruised to a confident 2-0 win over hosts USA at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with goals from Trincao and Joao Felix highlighting a clinical display from the European side.
Portugal showed their attacking prowess against the USA on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 and secured a comfortable 2-0 win in an international friendly. Francisco Trincao and João Félix were the visitors’ heroes, each finding the net with decisive finishes.
This match served as a crucial test for both nations as they prepare for the upcoming international challenges. For the USA, co-hosts of the 2026 World Cup, it was a chance to measure progress against Europe’s top opposition. Portugal, meanwhile, looked to continue building momentum with their mix of experienced stars and up-and-coming talent.
The first half started with Portugal securing control, dominating possession and dictating the pace. Their patient formation play often tested the USA’s defensive resolve. The home side struggled to retain possession for extended periods early on.
João Cancelo received the first yellow card of the game in the 34th minute for a tactical foul, breaking up a USA counterattack. The match saw a physical advantage develop. Opportunities remain scarce for Americans.
Portugal broke the deadlock just three minutes later, in the 37th minute. Francisco Trincao, after a good pass from Bruno Fernandes, beat Matthew Freese with a precise shot, giving Portugal a deserved lead. It was a well-worked goal that underlined Portugal’s efficiency.
United States captain Christian Pulisic was booked for a foul in stoppage time in the 45+3 minute as frustration began to show. The whistle blew shortly after, with Portugal leading by one goal. The home crowd held out hope for a second-half turnaround.
At the break, U.S. coach Gregg Berhalter was likely looking for more attacking intent and better ball retention from his squad. Portugal, however, would have been satisfied with their lead. Both teams made significant changes at the break, with Portugal introducing seven new players and the USA three, including Pulisic being replaced by P. Agyemang.
Wholesale changes at the break saw a very fresh set of players take to the field. Portugal, despite bringing in seven new faces, has kept its passing game composed. Antonee Robinson and Weston McKennie also entered the fray for the USA. The home team still had difficulty penetrating the Portuguese defence.
Portugal doubled their lead in the 59th minute through João Felix. Once again, Bruno Fernandes was the architect, delivering another incisive pass. Félix calmly scored the ball, extending the visitors’ lead to 2-0.
The USA pressed for a response, bringing on Timothy Weah and Malik Tillman in the 67th minute to inject fresh energy into their attack. However, clear chances remained elusive. Portugal’s defense held firm against any American pressure.
The final quarter of the game saw a flurry of further substitutions from both benches. Portugal managed the match effectively, denying the USA any genuine chance to get back into the contest. They showed maturity and control until the final whistle.
Portugal’s victory was based on their statistical dominance, controlling 61% of possession and completing 88% of their passes. Despite this, both teams only registered two shots on goal. The USA had more total shots with seven compared to Portugal’s three, but lacked the clinical edge to convert. Portugal goalkeeper José Sá made two saves against Matthew Freese’s USA.
That 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.

