SEATTLE — The United States men's national team defeated Australia 2-0 on Friday to advance to the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with one group match remaining.
The match, played at Seattle Stadium in front of more than 66,000 fans, saw the U.S. secure its second straight victory in Group D. An own goal by Australia's Cameron Burgess in the 11th minute and a header by Alex Freeman in the 43rd minute gave the hosts the win.
The U.S. played without star forward Christian Pulisic, who was sidelined by a calf injury. Coach Mauricio Pochettino's side controlled much of the first half, with Folarin Balogun involved in the opening goal through a low cross that Burgess turned into his own net. Freeman scored from a set piece delivered by Sergiño Dest.
Australia pushed forward in the second half but could not find a way past the U.S. defense, anchored by Chris Richards, who helped secure a clean sheet. The Socceroos finished the game without a goal despite late pressure.
"This team showed a lot of character," Pochettino said after the match. "We are building something special here at home."
The victory clinched a spot in the round of 32 for the co-hosts and positioned them atop Group D ahead of their final group game against Türkiye. It marked the first time in the modern era that the U.S. has won two consecutive World Cup matches.
U.S. Soccer officials and players celebrated the result, with defender Mark McKenzie leading a team prayer huddle on the pitch afterward. Fans in Seattle and across the country reacted with widespread enthusiasm to the advancement on home soil.
The match was the 29th game of the tournament. Australia, which entered with one point from its opening draw, dropped to 1-1-0 in the group.
The U.S. team will now prepare for the knockout rounds while completing group play. Details on exact opponents in the round of 32 will depend on other group results, though the team has already secured progression. No further injuries were reported beyond Pulisic's absence.
