
Atlanta to Welcome USMNT for Match Against Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal
The United States men's national soccer team will face Portugal at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium in a friendly match this March.
Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium is set to host a friendly match in March, featuring the United States men’s national team (USMNT) squaring off against Portugal, led by Cristiano Ronaldo. The U.S. Soccer Federation is also in discussions to arrange a match against Belgium during the same international window, with Atlanta as a potential venue.
FIFA’s two-match March window is critical, as it’s the final opportunity for participating World Cup teams to submit their 26-player rosters. The Athletic was the first to report on these potential matchups.
The match in Atlanta might also celebrate the debut of U.S. Soccer’s new training facility, which is scheduled to open this spring in Fayetteville. The 200-acre complex will be used by the USMNT before heading to the 2026 World Cup.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium, known as ‘The Benz’, accommodates 71,000 spectators and is the home ground for the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and MLS’s Atlanta United, both owned by billionaire Arthur Blank, who invested in the USSF training site.
Historically, Atlanta has been supportive of soccer events, showcasing a strong attendance record at men’s and women’s matches. The USMNT has only played once at this stadium before, experiencing a loss to Panama.
Portugal, ranked 6th by FIFA, recently captured the UEFA Nations League title but has struggled against the U.S. in recent matches, going winless against them in their last four encounters.