Seattle, USA, June 20: The United States secured their place in the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a convincing 2-0 victory over Australia at Seattle Stadium.
The win marked the Americans’ second consecutive triumph of the tournament, following their opening-match victory against Paraguay, and guaranteed their progression from Group D.
The hosts took the lead in the 11th minute through an own goal by Australian defender Cameron Burgess. Attempting to clear a dangerous ball inside the box, Burgess inadvertently sent it into his own net, handing the United States an early advantage.
The USA doubled their lead just before halftime when Alex Freeman found the back of the net in the 43rd minute, giving his side a comfortable cushion heading into the break.
Australia struggled to mount a comeback in the second half as the Americans maintained control and kept a clean sheet to seal a deserved 2-0 victory.
With the result, the United States moved to six points from two matches in Group D, becoming one of the first teams to book a spot in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
