SEATTLE : The United States booked their place in the World Cup round of 32 with a game to spare after a dominant 2-0 victory over Australia on Friday, overcoming the absence of captain Christian Pulisic to continue their impressive start to the tournament.
An early own goal from Australia’s Cameron Burgess and a first-half header from Alex Freeman secured the win for the co-hosts, who moved onto six points in Group D and could finish top if Turkey fail to beat Paraguay later on Friday.
The Americans, who also benefited from an own goal in their 4-1 win over Paraguay, took the lead in the 11th minute when Folarin Balogun surged down the left and delivered a low cross intended for Ricardo Pepi. Burgess, tracking back under pressure, inadvertently turned the ball into his own net.
The hosts controlled much of the first half, with midfielder Weston McKennie orchestrating play as Australia struggled to gain a foothold.
Their dominance was rewarded again in the 43rd minute when Freeman scored his first World Cup goal. A free kick led to a blocked effort from Sergino Dest, and the looping rebound fell kindly for the defender to nod into an empty net. The goal was initially ruled out for offside before a VAR review overturned the decision.
“It was surreal,” Freeman said. “At first it was disallowed, so I was anxious when it went to VAR. It was so emotional because you dream of this moment.”
Australia coach Tony Popovic responded by introducing goalscorers Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe at halftime after leaving both on the bench following the Socceroos’ 2-0 win over Turkey.
The changes improved Australia’s performance, but the visitors rarely threatened a comeback in a scrappy second half that produced few clear chances.
“I don’t know if it was the occasion, but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged,” Popovic said. “The players showed how good they are in the second half, but at this level you can’t give away that much in the first.”
Mauricio Pochettino’s side were content to manage the game after the break, conserving energy ahead of their final group match against Turkey in Los Angeles next Thursday.
The U.S. coach said the victory demonstrated the depth available to his squad while Pulisic continues to recover.
“If we want to win the competition, we need the whole team. All the players need to be important,” Pochettino said.
Freeman echoed that view.
“It says we have a really strong roster,” he said. “Whichever players are on the field, we’re going to execute and get a result. Christian is such a vital part of this team, but if he’s not available, someone else has to step in.”
Australia remain second in Group D on three points and will face Paraguay in San Francisco in a crucial final group-stage match.
The Socceroos nearly pulled one back late on, but defender Harry Souttar missed a clear opportunity with five minutes remaining.
“We had opportunities to score, we had chances,” Souttar said. “It’s still very raw.”
