United States Defeats Australia 2-0 at 2026 World Cup

The United States men's national soccer team defeated Australia 2-0 on Friday afternoon at Seattle Stadium in a 2026 World Cup group-stage match. The Americans controlled play throughout and advanced to the knockout stage without their leading player, who sat out with a calf injury.

Two goals in the first half produced the margin. Defender Alex Freeman added a header in the 43rd minute after a brief concussion check.

The United States limited Australia to few clear chances despite physical challenges that left several American players on the ground. Australia received four yellow cards to the United States' three. The win gave the United States first place in Group D after Paraguay defeated Turkey 1-0 later the same day.

The team will face a third-place side from another group in the round of 32 on July 1 in Santa Clara, California.

Pochettino, hired in 2024, has guided the squad through two consecutive victories without relying on favorable officiating decisions. The match drew 66,925 spectators to Seattle Stadium, which hosted the game under temporary World Cup naming rules. The United States will play its final group match against Turkey on June 26.