Mauricio Pochettino's United States suffered a chastening 5-2 loss against Belgium at Atlanta's Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with the hosts capitulating after the interval despite taking an early advantage.
Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie had given the Americans the lead in the 39th minute, converting from an Antonee Robinson corner to cap a promising opening period.
However, the 15th-ranked USMNT's defensive frailties were ruthlessly exposed by Belgium's pace across the pitch, with the visitors netting four times in the second half to complete a comprehensive victory.
The match was marred by a bizarre kit clash that drew widespread criticism from supporters.
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Both nations took to the field wearing predominantly white strips, creating a bewildering spectacle that left fans struggling to distinguish between the two sides.
The USMNT unveiled their new 'Stars' kit, featuring prominent red stripes on the front designed to evoke the American flag, though the reverse remained largely white.
Belgium had reportedly requested that the hosts switch to an alternative strip, but the Americans declined.
According to The Athletic, neither team had brought backup kits to the venue, and attempts to retrieve alternatives from team hotels after kick-off proved unsuccessful.
Both nations took to the field wearing predominantly white strips
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Supporters took to social media to voice their anger.
One fan wrote: "Whoever decided this was a smart idea is ridiculous."
Another said: "Who approved this kit matchup for the USA/Belgium Friendly? It’s truly unwatchable."
A third added: "This doesn’t even happen in a U-6 rec game."
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The USMNT unveiled their new 'Stars' kit
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The decision to implement hydration breaks proved equally baffling, given the stadium's retractable roof was closed and the venue was fully air-conditioned.
Play was halted after 20 minutes for the first stoppage, with a second break later in the match further frustrating those watching.
One fan wrote on social media: "I didn't (think) it could get more embarrassing after the uniform colors but here we are taking a hydration break inside an air-conditioned stadium. SMH!!!"
The interruptions disrupted what had begun as an evenly contested encounter before Belgium seized control through goals from Zeno Debast and Amadou Onana.
Belgium seized control through goals from Zeno Debast and Amadou Onana
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Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku proved the most threatening presence on the pitch, tearing through Pochettino's defence throughout the contest.
Charles De Ketelaere converted from the penalty spot to make it 3-1, six minutes after Belgium had taken the lead, with captain Tim Ream's handball gifting the visitors the opportunity.
Dodi Lukebakio then struck twice, first curling a left-footed effort into the top corner in the 68th minute before adding another in the 82nd.
Patrick Agyemang netted a late consolation for the Americans five minutes from time.
Pochettino's side face Portugal on Tuesday, with Cristiano Ronaldo expected to be absent.
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