Chris Richards available for US friendly vs. Portugal but Johnny Cardoso is out
Chris Richards is fit to play after recovering from a knee injury, while Johnny Cardoso returns to Atletico Madrid for treatment after leg discomfort, USMNT coach said.
- On Tuesday, March 31, 2026, the United States Men's National Team faces Portugal at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, with defender Chris Richards declared fit to return after a knee injury. His availability strengthens the defense for this final friendly before World Cup squad decisions in May.
- Following Saturday's 5-2 loss to Belgium, midfielder Johnny Cardoso sustained a leg injury that will sideline him for Tuesday's match. He returns to Atletico Madrid for recovery ahead of the club's Champions League quarterfinal against Barcelona.
- Head coach Mauricio Pochettino is considering tactical adjustments, including moving Christian Pulisic further forward to end his goal drought. Pochettino also noted Weston McKennie's versatility, suggesting he may shift back to accommodate Gio Reyna in the starting XI.
- Citing local staples like Chili's Grill and Bar, Richards shared his perspective on American culture. "I think that's one of the things that makes us American," the defender said, emphasizing his connection to home.
- This match represents the final chance for players to impress before the World Cup squad is named in May. The USMNT aims to recover from the Belgium defeat and build momentum heading into the tournament.
31 Articles
31 Articles
Chris Richards available for US friendly vs. Portugal but Johnny Cardoso is out
American defender Chris Richards has recovered from a knee injury and says he can play in the United States’ friendly against Portugal on Tuesday but midfielder Johnny Cardoso is hurt and will leave camp ahead of the game.
USMNT's Chris Richards on what makes America unique: `Maybe the TSA lines'
Ahead of the World Cup, Chris Richards has a new take on what makes America unique. “Maybe the TSA lines right now, that’s pretty American,” the U.S. defender said Monday ahead of a World Cup warmup match against Portugal. A native of Birmingham, Alabama, Richards lives much of the year in London, where he plays for English club Crystal Palace. He arrived in the U.S. last week for a pair of national team friendlies in Atlanta. His earlier take o…
US defender Chris Richards on what makes America unique: `Maybe the TSA lines'
MARIETTA, Ga. (AP) — Ahead of the World Cup, Chris Richards has a new take on what makes America unique. “Maybe the TSA lines right now, that’s pretty American,” the U.S. defender said Monday ahead of a World Cup warmup match against Portugal. A native of Birmingham, Alabama, Richards lives much of the year in London, where he plays for English club Crystal Palace. He arrived in the U.S. last week for a pair of national team friendlies in Atlant…
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