Cristiano Ronaldo could soon make his long-awaited return to U.S. soil, with reports claiming Portugal are in advanced talks to face the United States men’s national team in an international friendly next March.
The potential blockbuster clash would mark Ronaldo’s first appearance in the U.S. since August 2014, when he featured for Real Madrid in a record-breaking club friendly against Manchester United at Michigan Stadium. Over 109,000 fans packed the stands that day, setting an all-time attendance record for a soccer game in the United States.
According to The Athletic, the U.S. Soccer Federation is working on hosting Portugal at an NFL stadium on the East Coast as part of the March 2026 international window. The USMNT also hope to secure a second high-profile friendly against Belgium in the same period as they prepare for the FIFA World Cup on home soil.
Head coach Mauricio Pochettino is eager for his squad to test themselves against elite opposition from different confederations. The United States have struggled for consistency in 2025, losing six matches so far, including a 2–0 defeat to South Korea despite the return of Christian Pulisic.
However, the proposed showdowns depend on World Cup qualification. Both Portugal and Belgium must secure automatic places for 2026; otherwise, they’ll be tied up in UEFA playoffs scheduled for the same March window.
Ronaldo and Portugal are also expected to line up a friendly against Mexico at the legendary Estadio Azteca, provided qualification is wrapped up by year’s end.
For American fans, the possibility of seeing Cristiano Ronaldo in action against the Stars and Stripes represents a rare chance to witness one of football’s all-time greats on U.S. soil—just months before the World Cup kicks off.
