USA will target back-to-back victories in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group D when they square off with Australia at Lumen Field in Seattle on Friday.
Kick-off is at 9pm CAT.
CURRENT FORM
The USMNT are riding high after thrashing Paraguay 4-1 in their opening match on 13 June, returning to winning ways after losing to Germany in a friendly on 6 June prior to the tournament.
As co-hosts with a top-class squad led by Christian Pulisic, they are overwhelming favourites to top Group D, leading on goal difference heading into matchday two.
Meanwhile, Australia stunned Türkiye with a 2-0 victory in their Group D opener and they are now undefeated in two matches including their draw with Switzerland on 6 June just before the tournament.
The Socceroos will look to stay compact, frustrate the USA’s attacking play and secure a win, which would elevate them from second place to the top of the standings with a game to spare in Group D.
TEAM NEWS
Christian Pulisic picked up a minor calf issue and was subbed at halftime as a precaution, but it is not serious and the USA international is expected to be fit for Australia.
On the other side, it remains unclear whether Australia captain Mathew Ryan will return to the starting line-up after being benched in favour of young goalkeeper Patrick Beach for the opening win against Türkiye.
WHAT WAS SAID?
USA head coach Mauricio Pochettino
“I am so, so proud. I think players and staff deserve big credit for this performance and the feeling. We know that is only the start and it is nothing. It is only one game," Pochettino said.
“We need to be intelligent to keep going in that direction… but knowing that we need to keep going and trying to improve.”
Australia head coach Tony Popovic
“We’ve had a wonderful result, but we don’t want to have a poor performance now against the US," Popovic said.
"A good performance gives us a chance and that’s the minimum that’s required at the World Cup… We will need to take another step to beat a very good US team.
“Now we have a different challenge. We play a host nation, a quality manager, and a quality team. It will be different.”
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Christian Pulisic, USA: The AC Milan attacker was outstanding v Paraguay, creating chances, delivering a key assist, and dominating with his dribbling and vision. Pulisic's speed, creativity and ability to break lines could seriously hurt Australia’s low defensive block.
Nestory Irankunda, Australia: The Watford FC winger shone against Türkiye, scoring the opener with a cool finish and earning Player of the Match honours. Irankunda's blistering pace and direct runs could hurt the USA by stretching their defence on the counter.
HEAD-TO-HEAD
The USA and Australia have faced each other four times in friendlies: the USA won two, lost one, and drew one.
In their most recent meeting in October 2025, the USA came from behind to win 2-1, with Haji Wright scoring both goals after Australia took an early lead.
This will be their first-ever meeting at the World Cup.
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