"The U.S. Soccer Federation is finalizing details for the United States to play Portugal in a friendly in March, with Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium the likely venue, multiple sources with knowledge of the discussions told ESPN. The match, if held, would see Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo play in the U.S. for the first time since 2014 when he was here as part of Real Madrid's tour of the U.S."
"Sources added that Belgium is also being lined up as a friendly opponent for that timeframe, which is the final international window prior to the 2026 World Cup. Both matches depend on the two sides qualifying for the World Cup, and avoiding the intercontinental playoffs in March."
"Mercedes-Benz Stadium is the home of MLS side Atlanta United FC as well as the NFL's Atlanta Falcons, and will host eight matches at next summer's World Cup. Both teams are owned by Arthur J. Blank, who has contributed $50 million towards the construction of the USSF's new training facility in nearby Fayetteville, Georgia."
The U.S. Soccer Federation is finalizing plans for a March friendly against Portugal at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The match would mark Cristiano Ronaldo's first U.S. appearance since 2014. Belgium is also being lined up as a March friendly opponent, with both matches contingent on those teams qualifying for the 2026 World Cup and avoiding intercontinental playoffs. Belgium sits second in Group J, one point behind North Macedonia with a game in hand. Portugal tops Group F on goal differential after a 5-0 win over Armenia in which Ronaldo scored twice. Mercedes-Benz Stadium will host eight matches at the 2026 World Cup and owner Arthur J. Blank contributed $50 million toward the USSF's new Fayetteville training facility.
Read at ESPN.com
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