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ATLANTA – Dodi Lukebakio, the Benfica winger, delivered a powerful performance off the bench, scoring twice as Belgium defeated the United States 5-2 in a friendly international at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday. The match served as a key preparation fixture for both nations ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Lukebakio’s return to the Belgian national team marked his first appearance since sustaining an injury in November 2025. His two goals weren’t just significant for the scoreline; they represented a deeply personal triumph after a challenging period of recovery. The Benfica player hadn’t found the back of the net for either club or country since October, making this a particularly poignant moment.
The victory for Belgium exposed vulnerabilities in the U.S. Defense, raising questions as the Americans continue their preparations for their home World Cup. Weston McKennie had initially put the United States ahead in the 39th minute, scoring his 12th international goal – his first in three years – but Belgium responded emphatically.
Lukebakio spoke candidly after the match about the effort required to regain his fitness. “I am very emotional… I had to work very hard to get back in shape, and this moment also reminds me of all the invisible work I had to do to get here,” he said, as reported by Portuguese media. He also expressed gratitude to the national team coach for recalling him, as well as to his family and wife for their support during his recovery.
Belgium Overcomes Early Deficit
Despite McKennie’s early goal giving the United States the lead, Belgium quickly turned the tide. Zeno Debast equalized just before halftime, scoring in the 45th minute. Amadou Onana then put Belgium ahead in the 53rd minute, also marking his first international goal. Charles De Ketelaere extended the lead to 3-1 in the 59th minute, converting a penalty awarded after a handball by U.S. Captain Tim Ream.
Lukebakio’s impact was immediate after entering the game as a substitute in the 62nd minute. He scored twice – in the 68th and 82nd minutes – with long-range strikes that left U.S. Goalkeeper Matt Turner with little chance. The goals solidified Belgium’s dominance and brought the final score to 5-2.
A Moment of Emotional Release for Lukebakio
The Benfica winger emphasized the importance of faith, humility, and unity within the Belgian squad. “There are really a lot of emotions that were released,” Lukebakio said. “When I saw Jeremy Doku after my first goal, I felt that. We talked a lot about keeping our faith and humility. I really want to leverage this, this moment, to continue to be key for the team in every game.”
Lukebakio’s performance is a significant boost for both Belgium and Benfica. For Belgium, it provides a valuable attacking option as they prepare for the World Cup. For Benfica, it signals a return to form for a key player, offering optimism for their domestic and European campaigns. The forward expressed confidence in continuing to contribute to both teams.
The match in Atlanta, played before a largely pro-American crowd of 66,867, highlighted areas where the U.S. Team needs improvement, particularly in defense. The Americans are grouped with Australia, Paraguay, and a team from the intercontinental playoff for the World Cup, and will need to address these defensive issues quickly to be competitive.
The U.S. Coaching staff opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation, a departure from their usual 3-4-3 setup, in an attempt to contain Belgium’s attack. However, the change in formation proved ineffective as Belgium’s attacking prowess proved too much to handle. Matt Turner, making his first appearance since June, had a particularly frustrating afternoon.
What’s Next for Belgium and the United States?
Belgium will continue their World Cup preparations with further friendly matches scheduled in the coming months. Their focus will be on refining their tactical approach and building team cohesion. The United States, meanwhile, will analyze their performance against Belgium and work to address the defensive weaknesses exposed in Atlanta. Their next confirmed match is yet to be announced, but further friendlies are expected as they fine-tune their squad for the tournament.
Lukebakio’s story is one of perseverance and determination. His emotional return to the field, capped by two goals, serves as an inspiration for his teammates and a warning to their opponents. As both Belgium and the United States look ahead to the 2026 World Cup, this match provides valuable lessons and sets the stage for what promises to be a thrilling tournament.
