US beats Australia 2-0 to reach World Cup round of 32

The United States secured a berth in the round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup after defeating Australia 2-0 in a Group D match at Lumen Stadium in Seattle on Friday local time. The hosts opened the scoring on an own goal by Australia defender Cameron Burgess in the 11th minute, then doubled the lead through a header by Alex Freeman in the 45th minute. The result put the US atop the provisional Group D standings with six points from two matches. Australia remain second with three points and still have a chance to advance to the next stage. Throughout the match, the US pressed first and threatened through Sergino Dest and Folarin Balogun. Australia tried to respond through Nishan Velupillay and Cristian Volpato, but could not change the score before the final whistle.