“United States crush Australia and continue unstoppable on their way to the 2026 World Cup.”

Not even the absence of Christian Pulisic, the United States’ biggest star, dampened the momentum of a team that not only secured its place in the next round of the 2026 World Cup but also completely extinguished Australia’s hopes in a raucous Seattle Stadium. With an authoritative and pragmatic style of play, Mauricio Pochettino’s team demonstrated that it is definitely among the contenders to surprise in the tournament.

Without Pulisic, sidelined due to injury, the Americans presented a bold tactical plan, devised by Pochettino, opting for a 3-1-6 formation with a clear offensive intent. On the other side, Tony Popovic responded with a five-defender wall, attempting to contain the onslaught from the opposition. Despite an early warning from the Socceroos just one minute in, when Mohamed Touré forced Matt Freese into a sharp save, control of the game always belonged to the hosts. Ten minutes in, Folarin Balogun made an explosive run, and during the play, Cameron Burgess inadvertently deflected the ball into his own net, opening the scoring with an own goal that left Australia completely disoriented.

THE 2026 WORLD CUP IS EXPERIENCED WITH LEGO

The superiority of the United States was evident throughout the first half. Alex Freeman, in a double dose, proved decisive: first by thwarting a dangerous Australian attack with a timely clearance in his area, and then, in the 43rd minute, capping an excellent collective play with a header following a deflected shot from Sergiño Dest. The VAR still kept uncertainty in the air, but the validation of the 2-0 before halftime sent the Seattle Stadium into a frenzy and left the kangaroos on the brink.

The start of the second half brought changes for the Australian team, with Nestory Irankunda coming on to try to change the course of events. However, the ball circulation from the United States was suffocating, and Australia rarely managed to create danger. Only Metcalfe, in the 65th minute, was able to test Matt Freese again, but it had no consequences for the scoreline. Folarin Balogun also squandered a clear opportunity to extend the lead, being set up by Malik Tillman, but the victory was already secure for the Americans.

This performance cements the transformation brought about by Mauricio Pochettino since the humiliation at the 2024 Copa América. In less than two years, the Argentine coach has revolutionized American soccer, managing not only to secure qualification for the knockout stage of the World Cup but also to come close to a historic achievement: the United States can secure first place in the group, provided Turkey does not win against Paraguay, something that has not happened since 1930, the year of the tournament’s inaugural edition. Additionally, the United States has managed to win two consecutive matches in World Cups, a feat not seen in nearly a century.

In the aftermath of the match, Pochettino did not hide his pride in his players, highlighting their ability to respond in the absence of the main offensive reference: “We knew it would be a huge challenge, but this team showed maturity and an immense desire to win, regardless of who is on the field. The group is united and prepared for any adversity,” the coach stated at the press conference following the final whistle.

Alex Freeman, named man of the match, also shared his satisfaction: “It was special to score in a World Cup, especially in such an important game. The secret lies in our unity and the careful preparation of all the details. We want to continue making history,” said the young defender, who plays for Villarreal.

Looking to the future, the United States now presents itself as one of the most organized and dangerous teams in the tournament, even without their biggest star. Confidence is high, and the collective dynamic promises to continue causing difficulties for opponents. If Turkey does not defeat Paraguay, the Americans will secure the top of the group and a theoretically more favorable matchup in the knockout stage, raising expectations for a memorable campaign for U.S. soccer. On the other hand, Australia leaves with low morale and few prospects for recovery, following a lackluster performance with no solutions to stop the American steamroller.

NOW YOU CAN FOLLOW THE WORLD CUP WITH ALL THE INFORMATION – HERE