USA looked deadly in their opening win against Paraguay 4-1 and I don’t think Australia have defensive solutions for Pulisic, Balogun, Tillman and co. The Stars and Stripes are backed to win and secure a spot in the playoffs.
Key Stats
- USA have won 2 of their last 3 matches.
- USA have won their last 2 matches against Australia.
- Folarin Balogun has scored 3 goals in his last 2 matches for USA.
Four Previous Meetings
USA have been slightly more successful in previous matches, claiming two wins in four games while Australia celebrated one victory.
Stars and Stripes Crushed Paraguay in the First Round
United States of America had a phenomenal start to the World Cup 2026, claiming three huge points by defeating Paraguay 4-1 in front of the home crowd.
Folarin Balogun stole the spotlight here, netting a brace in the first half on Christian Pulisic’s and Malik Tilman’s assists. They finished the clash with 1.34-0.47 expected goals, 65% possession and 6-1 shots on target.
Their results in final test games earlier this month were solid, beating Senegal 3-2 with Christian Pulisic registering one goal and one assist, followed by a decent effort and a 2-1 loss against favored Germany. Antonee Robinson was their sole scorer here.
Australia Also Won the Opener
Like their upcoming opponents, Australia have made a huge step towards the playoffs by upsetting Turkey 2-0 in the World Cup 2026 opening round.
Nestor Irankunda broke the deadlock 27 minutes in, while Connor Metcalfe set the final score in the second half. They had just 28% possession here, usually striking through counter-attacks, allowing 30 shots total.
Their pre-tournament friendlies were a bit tough, registering a 1-0 defeat against Mexico, while the last test was a 1-1 draw against Switzerland where Tete Yengi found an equalizer for the Socceroos.
Team News & Predicted Lineups
USA (4-2-3-1) Matthew Freese; Alexander Freeman, Chris Richards, Tim Ream, Antonee Robinson; Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie; Sergino Dest, Malik Tillman, Christian Pulisic; Folarin Balogun
Mauro Pochettino has zero reasons to change the lineup that started against Paraguay. Malik Tillman didn't appear on the scoresheet there but played an important role with one assist, while also firing six shots. Folarin Balogun and Christian Pulisic were the key figures in that victory.
Australia (5-3-2) Patrick Beach; Jacob Italiano, Alessandro Circati, Harry Souttar, Cameron Burgess, Jordan Bos; Connor Metcalfe, Aiden O'Neill, Paul Okon-Engstler; Nestory Irankunda, Mohamed Toure
Alessandro Circati has suffered a minor knock during training but is expected to start here. Australia have no other injury concerns at the moment.