USA Cruise Past Australia to Reach World Cup Round of 32

USA became the second team after Mexico to qualify for the FIFA World Cup's Round of 32 with a 2-0 win over Australia in Seattle.

The US had won their opening match against Paraguay and it was only the second time that they won their opening two World Cup matches consecutively for the first time since 1930.

USA took the lead in the 11th minute when Folarin Balogun drove hard down the left wing and sent a dangerous low cross into the box. Attempting to clear the danger, Australian defender Cameron Burgess accidentally mis-hit the ball into his own net.

In the 43rd minute, Alex Freeman doubled the lead as he reacted quickly to nod the ball past Australian goalkeeper Patrick Beach. The goal was initially flagged but safely awarded following a semi-automated VAR review for offside.

The victory strengthens momentum around the co-hosts, who have emerged as one of the tournament's most exciting teams under Pochettino's leadership.

Your @MichelobUltra Superior Player of the Match is Folarin Balogun. 👑

#FIFAWorldCup #SuperiorPOTM pic.twitter.com/6fN6At14ZG

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 19, 2026

Folarin Balogun was named Player of the Match following his influential performance, which helped drive USA into the knockout phase.

USA are nowat the top of Group D with six points. They will conclude their group-stage campaign against Turkey at the Los Angeles Stadium on June 25, aiming to secure the top seed for a more favorable path in the knockout phase.