The U.S. men’s national team faces a pivotal moment on Friday, a chance to put itself in a strong position to win out Group D, when the team plays its second match of the 2026 World Cup against Australia in Seattle.
While the 4–1 win against Paraguay exponentially raised expectations, the USMNT’s test against the Socceroos will be a step up. Australia, led by the pace and tenacity of Watford youngster Nestory Irankunda, defeated Türkiye 2–0 in its opener despite holding just 28% of the game’s possession.