The United States national team secured their second consecutive win at the 2026 World Cup, defeating Australia 2-0 in Group D's second round. This victory guarantees the Americans an early spot in the tournament's knockout stage. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
The match took place on June 20 in Seattle. Goals: Burgess 11 (own goal, 1-0), Freeman 43 (2-0).
The Americans started the match aggressively and took the lead in the 11th minute thanks to an own goal by Australian defender Cameron Burgess, who deflected the ball into his own net. This moment was historic: the USA became the first team in World Cup history to benefit from own goals in two consecutive matches.
Before halftime, the hosts continued to control the game and doubled their lead in the 43rd minute. Alex Freeman won a battle in the penalty area and headed the ball accurately into the net.
In the second half, the Americans confidently maintained their advantage, not allowing the opponent to create dangerous chances. The Australians tried to reduce the deficit, but the solid defense of the USA left them no chance to revive the intrigue.
The victory allowed the USA to collect a maximum of six points after two rounds and secure an early place in the knockout stage. The Americans became the second team in the tournament to guarantee a spot in the round of 16, following Mexico.
Australia remains second in Group D with three points. The fate of the second direct ticket to the knockout stage will be decided in the final round.