The USMNT made it two wins from two at the World Cup with a 2-0 victory over Australia. The result moved Mauricio Pochettino’s side to six points, top of Group D and into the knockout stage.
It was another solid display, even if Australia’s late pressure made the second half less comfortable than the scoreline suggested. The United States looked organised, confident and increasingly difficult to handle.
Beyond the group leadership and qualification, the win also carried historical weight, as the USMNT have done something they had not managed since the first World Cup.
USMNT win back-to-back World Cup games for first time since 1930
With the 4-1 victory over Paraguay and 2-0 against Australia, the United States have won consecutive World Cup matches for the first time since 1930.
Back then, they beat Belgium 3-0 and Paraguay 3-0, securing a place in the knockout stage of a tournament with a very different structure. Their group had only three teams, and only four sides reached the next round.
The run ended heavily, with a 6-1 defeat to Argentina in what was effectively the semifinal.
This time, the USMNT still have one group match left. That gives Pochettino the chance to rest players, manage fitness and prepare for a better knockout fate.
USMNT impress without Christian Pulisic on the pitch
Christian Pulisic’s absence only made the result more impressive.
Pochettino’s gamble on Ricardo Pepi and Folarin Balogun paid off, even though neither scored. Balogun was pivotal in the opener, forcing the move that ended with Cameron Burgess’ own goal.
Alexander Freeman then finished the job after reacting to a deflected shot.
It was a statement that the USMNT can still compete without their main star. Pulisic remains vital, but the collective is clearly growing.
Read more:
