Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Belgium thrashes USA 5-2 in World Cup friendly
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Belgium defeated World Cup co-hosts United States 5-2 in an international friendly at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Saturday. Weston McKennie gave the hosts an early lead, but Belgium responded with five unanswered goals after halftime. The result underscores the USA's inconsistent form under manager Mauricio Pochettino ahead of the June tournament.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching in less than 150 days, Atlanta is accelerating preparations at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, starting with the installation of a natural grass field on January 31. Stadium officials detailed the transformation process, including turf removal and branding coverups, during a recent host committee update. Fulton County anticipates over 300,000 visitors and a significant economic boost from the eight matches hosted in the city.