A victory that secures classification
The United States achieved its second victory in Group D of the World Cup by beating Australia 2-0 at Lumen Field in Seattle. The victory, achieved without its star Christian Pulisic, gives it a pass to the round of 16 with two rounds played.
Mauricio Pochettino’s team was able to adapt to the absence of Pulisic, who missed the game due to a calf injury. It was the first time that the Americans advanced to the direct elimination phase after just two games.
The scoring opened early. In the 11th minute, Folarin Balogun sent in a cross from the left that Australian defender Cameron Burgess deflected into his own goal. It was the second consecutive own goal that benefited the United States in the tournament.
Alex Freeman, the youngest player on the team at 21 years old and son of former NFL player Antonio Freeman, extended the lead in the 43rd minute. He headed in a deflected shot from Sergiño Dest, and the goal was confirmed after video review.
Australia, which had just beaten Turkey, tried to react in the second half. Coach Tony Popovic brought on Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato, who resigned from Italy to represent the Socceroos. Volpato had a chance but finished high.
The game became more physical towards the end. Four yellow cards were handed out in the final minutes. The United States managed the advantage and let the clock run.
With six points, the United States leads the group. Australia is left with three. The next matchday, on Thursday, will face Turkey at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, while Australia will clash against Paraguay in San Francisco Bay.
