The United States became the second host nation to qualify for the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after beating Australia 2-0 in their second Group D match.
The Americans joined Mexico in the Round of 32 after winning their opening two group games. Mexico was the first team to secure qualification after a 1-0 victory over South Korea on June 18.
Playing in Seattle, the United States took the lead in the 11th minute when Australia defender Cameron Burgess scored an own goal. Alex Freeman doubled the advantage just before halftime, with the goal confirmed following a VAR review.
The victory moved Mauricio Pochettino’s side to six points from two matches, securing their place in the knockout stage with one group game remaining against Turkey.
The result also marked the first time since 1930 that the United States men’s national team had won its opening two matches at a FIFA World Cup.
The 2026 tournament is the first World Cup to feature 48 teams. The competition is made up of 12 groups of four teams, with the top two teams in each group and the eight best third-placed teams advancing to the Round of 32.
Canada, the third host nation, is yet to secure qualification for the knockout phase.
