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U.S. men's national team defeats Australia 2-0 at World Cup
The U.S. men's national team secured its second World Cup win without its regular starter. The team used a high press to limit Australia's build-up play and scored twice in the first half.
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The U.S. men's national team defeated Australia 2-0 in a World Cup group-stage match. The result came without the team's regular starter, who was rested for the contest.
First-half dominance The hosts won most second balls and loose possessions during the opening 45 minutes. Australia manager Tony Popovic said after the match that his side struggled to win challenges and gave away possession too easily. Two goals, one an own goal by Australian defender Burgess after a U.S. forward ran in behind, gave the hosts a comfortable lead at halftime.
Pressing tactics The U.S. coaching staff chose to press high despite Australia's counter-attacking style. The decision forced Australia to play longer passes than usual and disrupted their build-up. The press limited Australia's ability to play through midfield but could not be sustained for the full 90 minutes.
Australian substitutions Australia manager Tony Popovic started Mathew Leckie and Nishan Velupillay instead of Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe. Both substitutes were replaced before the hour mark. Irankunda and Cristian Volpato entered at halftime and created some late chances, though Australia could not reduce the deficit.
