Thu, September 17, 2026
Seattle (Web Desk): The United States (US) continued their impressive FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a comfortable 2-0 win over Australia in a Group D fixture played at Seattle Stadium on Friday.
The victory ensured the Americans achieved consecutive World Cup wins for the first time in 96 years, having already defeated Paraguay 4-1 in their opening match of the tournament.
Australia fell behind early when defender Cameron Burgess inadvertently put the ball into his own net in the 11th minute. The misfortune came after Folarin Balogun's effort struck Burgess and changed direction before finding its way past the goalkeeper.
The hosts doubled their advantage just before the interval. A free-kick situation led to the ball dropping for Sergiño Dest, whose attempt from outside the penalty area took a deflection and floated into the box. Alex Freeman reacted quickest and headed home in the 43rd minute. Although the goal was initially ruled out, a VAR review confirmed Freeman was onside, prompting celebrations among the American players and supporters.
No further goals were scored after halftime. The US enjoyed the majority of possession throughout the second period, while Australia managed to create a handful of chances and test the opposition goal. Despite their efforts, the Socceroos remained focused defensively and prevented the Americans from adding to their tally.
With the result, the US climbed to six points and booked their place in the round of 32. They will wrap up their Group D campaign against Turkey on Thursday at Los Angeles Stadium. Australia, meanwhile, remain on three points and will take on Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in their final group match.
In a separate development, US head coach Mauricio Pochettino revealed that star attacker Christian Pulisic was unavailable for the clash because of a left calf injury.
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