USMNT Clinches World Cup Knockout Berth With 2-0 Win Over Australia

20 Jun 2026

The United States advanced to the 2026 World Cup knockout rounds after beating Australia 2-0 at Lumen Field in Seattle on June 19. Despite being without star winger Christian Pulisic, who was sidelined by a calf injury, Mauricio Pochettino's side dominated the first half with an Australian own goal and a header from Alex Freeman handing them a commanding lead. The Socceroos pressed hard in the second half, producing some nervous moments for the Americans, but the US held on for the win. The result is the first time since 1930 that the US has won consecutive matches at a World Cup, and puts them in a strong position to top Group D.