Projected Lineups: USMNT vs. Belgium in 2026 International Friendly

The friendly match between the USMNT and Belgium is scheduled for 3:30 PM ET at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia. This will be the seventh encounter between these two national teams. Belgium leads the historical series with a record of 5 wins and 1 loss. The match is part of the international window and offers an opportunity for both teams to evaluate players and tactics.

The absence of key players, such as Miles Robinson and Chris Richards due to injury, will affect the USMNT's lineup, as confirmed by Mauricio Pochettino in his press conference. Belgium, for its part, could be facing one of the last opportunities for some players of their 'golden generation' to win a title. Despite this, their attack remains dangerous and represents a challenge for the American defense.

Mauricio Pochettino could opt for a lineup that includes Matt Freese in goal, with Joe Scally, Alex Freeman, and Tim Ream in defense. In midfield, Timothy Weah, Tanner Tessmann, Sebastian Berhalter, and Antonee Robinson. In the attack, Christian Pulisic, Malik Tillman, and Folarin Balogun. For his part, Rudi García could line up Matz Sels; Thomas Meunier, Zeno Debast, Arthur Theate, Timothy Castagne; Nicolas Raskin, Amadou Onana; Jeremy Doku, Kevin De Bruyne, Alexis Saelemaekers; Charles De Ketelaere.

These lineups are speculative and may vary depending on the coaches' decisions before the start of the match. The strategy of each team will depend to a large extent on the strengths and weaknesses of their available players and the tactics they wish to implement.

The World Cup draw has already defined the groups and opponents for both national teams. The USMNT is in Group D with Paraguay, Australia, and the winner between Turkey and Kosovo. Belgium is in Group G with Egypt, Iran, and New Zealand. These groups promise exciting and challenging matches for both teams on their way to the most prestigious competition in international soccer.

The group stage of the World Cup will be crucial in determining which teams will advance to the knockout rounds. Each match will be vital, and the teams will need to be at their best to secure a place in the next phase of the tournament.