Friendlies: Upcoming Featuring Belgium and Brazil

By Rohan Mehta / 24.03.2026

How it unfolded

As international football approaches, teams are gearing up for a series of friendlies that will serve as crucial preparation for upcoming competitions. Belgium and Brazil are among the teams set to play, with their respective matches scheduled for late March 2026. This period is particularly significant as it allows teams to assess their squads and make final adjustments ahead of major tournaments.

Belgium’s national team, under coach Rudi Garcia, has called up a total of 28 players for their upcoming friendlies against the United States on March 28 and Mexico on March 31. However, the team will be without key players Leandro Trossard and Hans Vanaken, both ruled out due to injuries. The Belgian federation stated, “This decision will allow them to continue their rehabilitation under optimal conditions,” highlighting the importance of player health over immediate participation.

Meanwhile, the England squad has also seen changes as they prepare for their friendlies against Uruguay and Japan. Ben White has been called up, marking his return to the national team after a three-year absence since leaving the Qatar World Cup camp early. White expressed his readiness, stating, “I’m definitely available. I spoke to him a few times.” Additionally, Harvey Barnes has stepped in to replace the injured Eberechi Eze, bringing his own experience with one previous cap for England.

On the other side of the Atlantic, Brazil is preparing for their friendlies against France and Croatia, which are part of their broader strategy leading up to the World Cup. Brazil’s first training session for these matches took place on March 23 in Orlando, where 15 players participated. However, the squad has also faced setbacks, with Alisson and Alex Sandro being replaced due to injuries. Brazil aims to solidify their tactics and team chemistry ahead of their matches, with the first game against France scheduled for March 26 in Boston.

The upcoming matches are not just about the results on the pitch; they are also vital for assessing player fitness and team dynamics. For Belgium, the absence of Trossard and Vanaken could impact their performance, while England’s adjustments with White and Barnes will be closely monitored. Each team is looking to build momentum and confidence as they head into a busy football season.

As these friendlies approach, the focus will be on how each team adapts to the changes in their lineups. The outcomes of these matches could provide insights into the teams’ readiness for future competitions and the effectiveness of their strategies. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these developments unfold on the field.

In summary, the friendlies scheduled for late March present an opportunity for teams like Belgium and Brazil to test their squads and refine their strategies. With injuries affecting key players, the dynamics of these matches will be crucial in shaping the teams’ paths forward as they prepare for more significant challenges ahead.