How Manchester United stars fared in international assignments
Several Manchester United stars were out representing their respective national teams during the FIFA break week.
Leading the team was Portugal captain Bruno Fernandes, who continued his impressive creative form on international duty, playing a key role in his side’s 2-0 victory over the United States during ongoing World Cup preparatory matches on Wednesday morning, April 1, 2026.
Bruno shines
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With Cristiano Ronaldo unavailable, the Manchester United midfielder once again led his country and delivered a standout display in Atlanta. Midway through the first half, he latched onto a pass from Vitinha and produced a clever backheel that set up Francisco Trincão, who calmly slotted home the opener.
Later in the game, Fernandes turned provider again, assisting João Félix for Portugal’s second goal with a well-timed pass that allowed the forward to strike from distance and seal the win. Fernandes, who is also chasing an assist record in the league this season, was substituted late on after another influential outing. In the same match, Diogo Dalot featured in defence during the first half.
Elsewhere, England suffered a surprise 1-0 defeat to Japan at Wembley, marking their first-ever loss to an Asian side on Tuesday night, March 31, 2026. Kaoru Mitoma scored the decisive goal. Kobbie Mainoo started in midfield and played over an hour before being replaced, while Harry Maguire came on late, took over the captaincy, and nearly equalised with a header.
Also, Brazil claimed a 3-1 win over Croatia, with Casemiro and Matheus Cunha both starting. Cunha was lively in attack and helped create the opening goal, while other scorers ensured Brazil secured a comfortable victory. After the match, Casemiro expressed confidence in Brazil’s chances, saying they are determined to meet expectations at the upcoming World Cup.
Lammens benched
Belgium were held to a 1-1 draw by Mexico, with goalkeeper Senne Lammens remaining on the bench. Meanwhile, Manuel Ugarte featured in Uruguay’s goalless draw against Algeria.
In another friendly, Ivory Coast edged Scotland 1-0, with Amad Diallo making a late appearance and testing the goalkeeper with a strong effort.
Morocco also registered a 2-1 win over Paraguay, although Noussair Mazraoui remained an unused substitute, while Diego León did not feature.
In the UEFA Nations League, James Scanlon played the full match as Gibraltar narrowly lost 1-0 to Latvia.
