USA beat Australia to reach World Cup knockouts with first double in 96 years
The United States became the second team after co-hosts Mexico to book their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stages after a comfortable 2-0 win over Australia on Friday. Mauricio Pochettino’s side made it two wins from two matches, securing progression with a game to spare and recording their first back-to-back victories at a World Cup since 1929.
After opening their campaign with an emphatic 4-1 win over Paraguay, the co-hosts delivered another assured display in front of a buoyant home crowd. An own goal from Cameron Burgess and a VAR-awarded header from Alex Freeman proved enough to send the Americans into the Round of 32 and underline their growing credentials on home soil.
USA vs AUSTRALIA, FIFA WORLD CUP 2026: HIGHLIGHTS
The result moves the United States to six points at the top of Group D, while Australia remain on three and will now need a positive result against Paraguay to keep their qualification hopes alive.
USA STRIKE EARLY TO TAKE CONTROL
The Americans needed just 11 minutes to break the deadlock.
Folarin Balogun burst beyond the Australian backline and drove into the penalty area before delivering a dangerous low ball across goal. Defender Cameron Burgess, attempting to clear the danger, could only divert the ball into his own net.
Australia struggled to recover from the early setback as the United States continued to dictate the tempo with their energy and pressing. The Socceroos enjoyed spells of possession but rarely threatened to test the American defence.
The hosts thought they had doubled their lead shortly before half-time when Alex Freeman headed home from close range. The assistant referee’s flag initially denied him, but a lengthy VAR review confirmed the goal, sparking wild celebrations among the home supporters.
The moment effectively knocked the wind out of Australia just before the break.
POCKETTINO’S SIDE CONTINUE TO BUILD MOMENTUM
Having impressed against Paraguay in their opening fixture, the United States once again looked organised, disciplined and clinical when opportunities arrived.
Pochettino’s side may not have produced a performance packed with attacking fireworks, but they controlled the match exactly when required. Australia struggled to create clear-cut chances, while the Americans looked comfortable protecting their two-goal advantage throughout the second half.
The victory also carries historical significance.
The United States had not won their opening two matches at a World Cup since the 1929 edition, making this the country’s first World Cup double in 96 years. More importantly, it confirms their place in the knockout rounds with one group-stage fixture still to play.
With qualification already secured, the United States can now approach their final Group D match against Trkiye with confidence and an opportunity to build further momentum before the knockout stages begin.
For Australia, meanwhile, the equation is much simpler. Their World Cup future now hinges on a must-win encounter against Paraguay as they attempt to keep their campaign alive.
FIFA World Cup | FIFA World Cup Schedule | FIFA World Cup Points Table | Football News
– Ends
