The USA and Australia meet in a crucial Group D showdown at Seattle Stadium on Matchday 2 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Both teams opened their campaigns with victories, making this matchup one of the most significant games of the group stage so far. The USMNT, however, will deal with a huge absence as Christian Pulisic was ruled out for the game. Follow USA vs Australia live with us!
The Americans impressed in their tournament opener, defeating Paraguay 4-1 behind a brace from Folarin Balogun, a goal from Giovanni Reyna, and an own goal forced by sustained attacking pressure. Mauricio Pochettino’s side controlled the match from start to finish and immediately emerged as one of the strongest teams in the group.
Australia also started the tournament on a positive note, earning a 2-0 victory over Turkey in Vancouver. Goals from Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe secured the Socceroos’ first World Cup win since Germany 2006, putting them level on points with the United States, though behind on goal difference heading into Matchday 2. Now, a win, tie or loss will have different implications for the USA and Australia.
USA’s confirmed lineup
A second consecutive victory would see the United States qualify for the Round of 32. Pochettino is forced to make a big change to the team that delivered a dominant performance against Paraguay, as Christian Pulisic isn’t playing today.
Christian Pulisic #10 and Weston McKennie #8 of the United States celebrate their side’s first goal. Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images
USA’s confirmed starting XI: Matt Freese; Antonee Robinson, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Alex Freeman; Tyler Adams, Malik Tillman, Sergiño Dest, Weston McKennie, Ricardo Pepi; Folarin Balogun.
Australia’s confirmed lineup
Australia enter the match with confidence after their opening win and will move to the top of Group D with another three-point performance. The Socceroos are trusting the core group that produced a disciplined and efficient display against Turkey.
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Australia’s starting XI: Patrick Beach, Jordan Bos, Jacob Italiano, Paul Okon Jr., Aiden O’Neill, Nishan Velupillay, Mathew Leckie, Cameron Burgess, Harry Souttar, Alessandro Circati, Mohamed Touré.
