SEATTLE (VGMG) — The United States men’s national team clinched a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout round after defeating Australia 2-0 in their second Group D match at Lumen Field on Thursday.
The Americans took the lead in the 11th minute when Australian defender Cameron Burgess inadvertently redirected a cross from United States forward Folarin Balogun into his own net. The goal marked the second consecutive match in which the United States benefited from an opponent’s own goal, a first in World Cup history spanning 92 years.
United States defender Alex Freeman doubled the advantage in the 43rd minute with a header from a corner kick. The goal survived a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review for offside before being confirmed.
The result gave the United States six points from two matches, making them the second team to guarantee progression after Mexico achieved the feat on Friday. Australia, with three points from one win, must defeat Paraguay in their final group match to secure automatic qualification.
United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino said his squad executed the game plan effectively. Captain Christian Pulisic missed the match due to a calf injury, but the team maintained its intensity without their star attacker.
Australia will face Paraguay in their decisive group-stage finale. A loss would likely eliminate them from direct qualification contention.
VGMG