Sport: Soccer Country: Australia Category: Playoffs

USMNT secures knockout stage spot with win over Australia

CBS Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 19, 2026, 9:27 PM

Last updated Jun 19, 2026

USMNT secures knockout stage spot with win over Australia

Summary

The United States men's national team defeated Australia 2-0 on June 19 at the 2026 World Cup, clinching a place in the knockout stage. This victory follows an impressive 4-1 win against Paraguay in their opening match. Alex Freeman shone as the standout player, scoring a goal and earning a high player rating, while the defense maintained a solid performance with only one goal conceded in two matches. The team, led by coach Mauricio Pochettino, aims to win Group D in their next match, showing promising form despite missing key player Christian Pulisic due to injury.

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Key Details

•USMNT records back-to-back victories in World Cup group stage.
•Alex Freeman is highlighted as the best player against Australia.
•Christian Pulisic missed the match due to a calf injury.
•U.S. has allowed only one goal in the tournament so far.
•Next match will determine if the U.S. secures Group D victory.

Latest Updates

9:27 PMCBS Sports — USMNT Player Ratings: Alex Freeman leads way vs. Australia; USA soccer clinch knockout spot

What they're saying

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Here's how all the USMNT players performed in the World Cup group stage match against Australia, which the Americans won 2-0 on Friday
— CBS Sportsby Roger Gonzalez

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