SEATTLE — The United States Men's National Team continued preparations on Tuesday for its second Group D match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Australia, with both teams seeking to build on opening-match victories that placed them among the early leaders in the group, according to team officials and FIFA.
The match is scheduled for Friday at Seattle Stadium and could play a significant role in determining the Group D standings. The United States opened its tournament with a 4-1 victory over Paraguay in Los Angeles, while Australia defeated Türkiye 2-0 in Vancouver, according to FIFA and tournament records.
Attention during the U.S. training camp has focused on captain Christian Pulisic after he left the Paraguay match with what team officials described as a minor knock. Pulisic participated in modified training activities on Monday, and U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino indicated that the winger's condition was not considered serious, according to media reports. Midfielder Tyler Adams also expressed confidence regarding his teammate's availability.
“Christian will be ready, relax,” Adams told reporters, according to The Guardian. Team officials have not announced any changes to the expected lineup ahead of the Australia match.
The United States and Australia enter the contest level on points after the opening round of group-stage matches. FIFA's published schedule identifies the June 19 meeting in Seattle as the second match for both teams before they conclude group play against Türkiye and Paraguay, respectively.
Australia's preparations have included managing growing attention following its victory over Türkiye. Assistant coach Hayden Foxe said on Tuesday that players were experienced enough to handle public scrutiny and commentary surrounding the team.
“We're not going to baby them,” Foxe said when discussing players' exposure to media and social media before the match against the United States, according to Reuters. He added that the squad remained focused on internal preparation rather than outside opinions.
The teams met in a friendly match in Colorado in October 2025, with the United States winning 2-1, according to FIFA. Several players from that match remain part of both squads at the World Cup.
Group D also includes Paraguay and Türkiye. Under the expanded 48-team World Cup format, teams are competing for places in the knockout stage, with group position expected to influence subsequent matchups. Tournament organizers have reported strong attendance for matches hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
As of Tuesday, both teams were continuing training sessions ahead of Friday's fixture. Officials from neither side reported major new injuries, and final squad selections for the match had not yet been announced.
