SportFootballWorld Cup 2026USA 2-0 AUSTRALIA: Mauricio Pochettino's men look set to reach the knockout rounds of the World Cup after keeping up their perfect start in Seattle on Friday evening22:05, 19 Jun 2026Updated 22:05, 19 Jun 2026The United States have booked their spot in the World Cup last 32 after a comfortable 2-0 win against Australia in Seattle.‌The hosts enjoyed a dream start in Seattle as Cameron Burgess put through his own net in the ninth minute. Mauricio Pochettino's side netted a second just before the break through Alex Freeman, albeit it took a VAR check to officially give the goal.‌Australia struggled to muster much of a response as the US seized top of the group.. Pochettino's men will rubber-stamp top spot in the last-16 should Turkey and Paraguay draw.‌In the meantime, Australia face a nervous wait to find out what they will be playing for on the last day next week.Following his brace in the opening game against Paraguay, Monaco frontman Balogun was at it again early in Friday's clash. He raced away from his marker down the left flank with an electric run and produced a low cross that was inadvertently turned home by Burgess.And while the USA enjoyed the nature of their first goal, it was the second that really got the crowd going at Lumen Field.‌From a free-kick, Antonee Robinson played the ball to Sergino Dest on the edge of the box. His effort deflected high into the air, with Freeman the quickest to react and nod home. The linesman initially ruled out the goal but VAR eventually awarded it, as a spot in the knockout rounds firmly came into view.Balogun should have wrapped things up minutes into the second-half but was denied by a good block from Alessandro Circati.‌Australia built up a slight head of steam midway through the second-half, after boss Tony Popovic had opted for changes at the break. But none of their opportunities were especially clear cut until a few late swipes as the hosts failed to clear a corner, allowing the USA to celebrate a well-deserved victory.They will now round off their group campaign against Turkey in Los Angeles, while Australia and Paraguay will come together in California.Should both Turkey and Paraguay draw, the USA will be confirmed as group winners and will take on a third-placed team from either Group B, E, F, I or J in the next round.Article continues belowJoin our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌World Cup 2026United States national football teamAustralia football team