USMNT's Bold World Cup Build-Up: Belgium, Portugal & Germany Stage a Summer Tune-Up

World Cup Prep Schedule

The United States Soccer Federation has confirmed that the host nation’s men’s team will close its World Cup preparations, alongside Mexico and Canada, with a series of friendlies against Belgium, Portugal and Germany.

Head coach Mauricio Pochettino’s squad will begin the final phase of its preparation against Belgium in Atlanta on March 28.

The US will stay in Georgia to host Portugal, led by captain Cristiano Ronaldo, on March 31 at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

The Americans will also play a still-to-be-confirmed friendly in Charlotte, North Carolina on May 31, before finishing their tune-up with Germany at Soldier Field in Chicago on June 6.

“This is a great opportunity to test ourselves against some of the best teams in the world. Great matches for players and fans,” Pochettino said in a statement.

Belgium, Portugal and Germany have qualified for next year’s World Cup, which has expanded to 48 teams and is hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.

The tournament kicks off on June 11, with the final on July 19.

The United States opens its campaign in Los Angeles on June 12 and, like the other qualified teams, will learn its group opponents following Friday’s draw in Washington, D.C.

Punchline 1: The defense is so tight that even the ball files a restraining order before crossing the line.

Punchline 2: If this team keeps improving, the trophy might start wearing a disguise just to avoid all the hype.