USA reach World Cup 2026 Round of 32 after 2-0 win over Australia

Seattle: The United States men's national soccer team clinched a berth in the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage with a decisive 2-0 win against Australia. This victory propels them into the Round of 32, making them the second team after Mexico to advance.

Folarin Balogun, who had a brace in the opening match, played a crucial role in the first goal. His cut-back in the 11th minute forced Australia's Cameron Burgess into an own goal. The lead was doubled by Alex Freeman, who headed in a deflected effort after a corner, with VAR confirming the goal after an initial offside call.

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Folarin Balogun, who scored twice in the opening match of the United States, played a key role in the opener when Australia defender Cameron Burgess turned his cut-back into his own net in the 11th minute.

Australia's coach, Tony Popovic, attempted to alter the game's momentum with substitutions, but his team struggled to create significant chances in the second half. The United States, now with six points, are in a strong position to top Group D ahead of their final match against Turkey.

The team's performance also highlights their historical scoring prowess. This marks the second consecutive World Cup match where they've scored multiple first-half goals, a feat not achieved since 1930. With six goals already, they are on the verge of surpassing their all-time best of seven goals in a single tournament.

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The second goal came through defender Alex Freeman, with VAR overturning an initial offside decision. Freeman headed in Sergino Dest's deflected effort after a corner to double the lead.