USA Men’s Eagles Head Coach Scott Lawrence and staff have named the Match day squad to take on Portugal in the opening fixture of the inaugural Nations Cup competition.
The Eagles will run out in Denver’s Dick Sporting Goods Park in the Red, White, and Blue on the 4th of July donning a commemorative 250 year anniversary patch paying tribute to the history that has helped pave the way for our country and the USA Eagles.
The Eagles have had a busy week, which included a scrimmage with Tonga and a few off-training moments such as a visit from some youth players, and captain Jason Damm throwing out the first pitch at the Colorado Rockies game.
Damm wanted to throw that pitch from the top of the mound but they took one look at his size and told him to stay off the hill in case he damaged it.
Kickoff is set for 7:00 PM MT with fireworks promised post-match.
Fans can purchase tickets here >>
And the game is live on Paramount+.
Closing out just their ninth day together in camp in Colorado’s high altitude environment the USA Eagles are eager to get their 2026 campaign underway. And while the Eagles did beat Portugal the last time they met, in 2024, Lawrence acknowledges this will be a tough match.
"It's important to remember the goal we're focused on, which is the World Cup," said Lawrence. "And Portugal is one of the steps toward that goal."
Chicago Hounds lock Nathan Den Hoedt will make his debut for the USA in the starting lineup. Den Hoedt, among his many talents, brings leadership in the lineout.
"He's been the lineout called in every team he's been in and his taking that on allows the rest of us to focus on other things like just being physical," said Damm.
Perry Mayo, who scored 11 tries in 22 matches for Nevers in France's Pro D2, makes his debut on the wing.
Prop Mason Pederson ends a long journey to get on the USA gameday 23, while former Life University standout Julian Roberts can also earn his first cap, coming off the bench.
“July is always a shotgun start for us as we bring the team together from across the world," said Lawrence. "The men have been diligent in their detail of the basics we are rapidly putting in place. The nation’s 250th is a special day and we are grateful to have the opportunity to represent our country’s rugby community on Saturday.”
"Wearing the Red, White, and Blue on the 4th is an honor and I definitely will never give away that jersey, that's for sure," added Damm.
The match against Portugal will kick off the first round of the USA’s Nations Cup campaign before they travel to North Carolina to take on Zimbabwe followed by Spain. Tickets for all matches are available at https://eagles.rugby/tickets.
