USA beat Australia to complete World Cup elimination for first double in 96 years

The United States became the second team after co-hosts Mexico to book their place in the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a comfortable 2-0 win over Australia on Friday. Mauricio Pochettino’s side made it two wins from two games to secure promotion with a game to spare and record their first back-to-back World Cup victories since 1929.

After opening their campaign with an emphatic 4-1 win over Paraguay, the co-hosts produced another confident display in front of a boisterous home crowd. A Cameron Burgess own goal and Alex Freeman’s VAR-awarded header proved enough to send the Americans through to the round of 32 and underline their growing credit 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 hopes of qualification alive.

US INTERVENTIONS EARLY TO TAKE CONTROL

The Americans needed just 11 minutes to break the deadlock.

Folarin Balogun burst behind Australia’s back line and drove into the penalty area before delivering a dangerous low ball across goal. Defender Cameron Burgess, trying to avert the danger, could only deflect the ball into his own net.

Australia struggled to recover from the early setback as the United States continued to dictate the pace with their energy and pressure. The Socceroos enjoyed spells of possession but rarely threatened to test the American defense.

Shortly before half-time, the home side thought they had doubled their lead when Alex Freeman slotted home from close range. The assistant referee’s flag initially ruled it out, but a lengthy VAR review upheld the goal, sparking wild celebrations among the home fans.

This moment just before the break effectively knocked the wind out of Australia.

POCKETTIN’S SIDE CONTINUE TO BUILD MOMENTUM

The United States, who impressed against Paraguay in their opener, again looked organized, disciplined and clinical when the opportunities presented themselves.

Pochettino’s side may not have produced a performance packed with attacking fireworks, but they controlled the game exactly when they needed to. Australia struggled to create clear-cut chances while the Americans looked to defend their two-goal lead throughout the second half.

The victory also has historical significance.

The United States have not won their opening two World Cup games since the 1929 edition, the first World Cup doubles in 96 years. More importantly, it confirms their place in the knockout rounds with one group stage match to play.

With qualification already secured, the United States can now head into their final Group D game against Turkey with confidence and an opportunity to gain 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 clash with Paraguay as they look to keep their campaign alive.

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Issued by:

Debodinna Chakraborty

Published on:

20 Jun 2026 02:57 IST