World Cup 2026: 'Receiving gifts' from Australia, US team secures spot to advance

Contrary to initial expectations of a tough match, as Australia had shown resilience in their first match victory over Turkey (2-0), the US team took an early lead and enjoyed a relatively comfortable game.

In the 11th minute, US forward Balogun made a fast run down the left wing and crossed into the penalty area. In a rather clumsy attempt to clear the ball, Australian defender Cameron Burgess scored an own goal.

This was the 7th own goal of the 2026 World Cup, just short of the 12 own goals at the 2018 World Cup, but the tournament hasn't even completed half of the group stage. The US also became the first team in World Cup history to benefit from own goals in two consecutive matches, and notably both own goals helped "Uncle Sam" open the scoring. In the opening match against Paraguay, the US also received a gift from defender Bobadilla in the 7th minute.

With an early goal, the US continued to play with enthusiasm and launched repeated attacks. In the 43rd minute, luck favored the home team again with the intervention of VAR.

US full-back Sergio Dest fired a shot from outside the penalty area; the ball deflected off an Australian defender and caused goalkeeper Patrick Beach to misjudge. Immediately, Alexander Freeman seized the opportunity to head the ball into the Australian net. Initially, the assistant referee raised the flag for offside against Freeman, but VAR intervened and determined that the US player was not offside. The goal was awarded.

In the second half, Australia played hard but had few sharp moves or clear chances. On the other side, coach Pochettino instructed his players to slow down the pace and increase ball possession. No further goals were scored. In the end, the US won 2-0 against Australia.

For the first time since 1930, the inaugural World Cup, the US has won two matches in a single World Cup. They have had a dream start and become the second team to qualify for the Round of 16, after fellow co-host Mexico. "Uncle Sam" now has 6 points, 3 ahead of Australia, while the remaining two teams in Group D, Turkey and Paraguay, have no points yet.