U.S. men's soccer advances to World Cup knockout round with 2-0 win over Australia

The U.S. men's soccer team defeated Australia 2-0 in Seattle on Friday, securing advancement to the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The victory came in the team's second group-stage match, played in front of a roaring Seattle crowd.

Australia's Cameron Burgess scored an own goal in the 11th minute after mishandling a run and pass from U.S. forward Folarin Balogun. Alex Freeman netted the second goal in the 43rd minute.

The U.S. controlled possession from the opening whistle, dominating play against Australia throughout the match. The team achieved the victory despite the absence of star attacking midfielder Christian Pulisic, who was sidelined by a calf injury.

With six points from two matches, the United States holds the top spot in Group D and has mathematically clinched a knockout-stage berth. Australia remains in second place in the group with three points. Turkey and Paraguay have zero points each.

The U.S. opened its World Cup campaign with a 4-1 victory over Paraguay. In their final group-stage match, scheduled for June 26, the Americans will face Turkey. Australia will play Paraguay in their concluding fixture.

Mexico became the first team to advance to the knockout round after defeating South Korea 1-0 on June 19. The U.S. became the second nation to secure a Round of 32 spot.

For the first time since 1930, the U.S. men's team won their opening two World Cup matches.