What is the USMNT’s worst ever defeat?

Belgium came to Mercedes-Benz Stadium and, despite the United States taking the lead through Weston McKennie in the 38th minute, the game quickly turned. The visitors responded emphatically, scoring five times to hand Mauricio Pochettino’s side a sobering defeat in one of their final high-level tests ahead of the 2026 World Cup. A consolation goal from Patrick Agyemang was little comfort.

Worst ever USMNT result

Even so, this was nowhere near the worst result the U.S. has suffered. That record dates back to 1948, when the USMNT were beaten 11-0 by Norway at Ullevaal Stadium in Oslo. Norway ran riot in front of around 25,000 fans, scoring at will in what remains the most lopsided defeat in U.S. men’s national team history.

While that result belongs to a very different era of American soccer, it still stands as the benchmark for the program’s lowest point in terms of scoreline.

Pochettino with work to do

With the World Cup set to begin on June 11, performances like this offer a reminder of the gap the U.S. must close against elite teams. For Pochettino, the result may not carry competitive consequences, but it raises questions as he continues to shape his roster and identity ahead of a tournament that will be played largely on home soil.

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