Sport: Soccer Country: Australia Category: Scores & Results

USMNT secures 2-0 victory against Australia with goals from Freeman and Pepi

CBS Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 20, 2026, 1:39 AM

Last updated Jun 20, 2026

USMNT secures 2-0 victory against Australia with goals from Freeman and Pepi

Summary

The U.S. Men's National Team defeated Australia 2-0 in Seattle on June 20, 2026. Alex Freeman scored the first goal, while Ricardo Pepi added the second after stepping in for the injured Christian Pulisic. This match marked a significant moment for both players, with Freeman now having two World Cup starts and Pepi demonstrating his importance to the squad. Coach Mauricio Pochettino praised the tactical decision to use two strikers against Australia's five-man defense, allowing the team to create space and scoring opportunities. The USMNT has now confirmed their place in the knockout rounds of the tournament.

Source Links

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Status Watch

•USMNT defeated Australia 2-0 in Seattle on June 20, 2026.
•Alex Freeman and Ricardo Pepi scored for the USMNT.
•Christian Pulisic was unavailable due to a calf issue.
•Pochettino's tactics utilized two strikers against Australia's defense.
•USMNT confirmed their qualification for the knockout rounds.

Latest Updates

1:39 AMCBS Sports — Mauricio Pochettino's fresh lens offers USMNT's Alex Freeman, Ricardo Pepi long-waited World Cup moments

What they're saying

"
Freeman scored in the USMNT's 2-0 win over Australia on Friday, while Pepi excelled after coming in for the injured Christian Pulisic
— CBS Sportsby Pardeep Cattry

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