USMNT Prepare Final Pre-Tournament Test vs Portugal — Stars Kit Debut, Ronaldo Absent

The USMNT held their final training session before the March 31 friendly against Portugal at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta as pre-match coverage intensified on March 30. Mauricio Pochettino confirmed his starting lineup approach would prioritize tactical assessment over result — particularly defensive organization after the 2–5 Belgium rout on March 28. Portugal confirmed no Cristiano Ronaldo (muscle injury), no Rafael Leão (injury), and no Diogo Costa (injury, replaced by Ricardo Velho). Despite the absences, Portugal remain formidable: Bruno Fernandes (hat-trick in a 9–1 win over Armenia), João Félix, and the midfield trio of Fernandes, João Neves, and Vitinha represent a genuine examination of US defensive quality. The US will again debut the new Stars and Stripes Nike kits. The match (TNT, TruTV, Max, Universo, Peacock — 7 p.m. ET) is the USMNT's final fixture before Pochettino announces the 26-man World Cup roster on May 26. USMNT fan groups noted the Portugal match carries added psychological weight given the heavy Belgium defeat — Pochettino must show improvement to maintain confidence before the June 11 tournament opener.