US beat Australia to reach World Cup knockout stage despite Pulisic absence

TLE DESK: The United States secured their place in the World Cup knockout stage with a convincing 2-0 victory over Australia in Seattle on Friday, overcoming the absence of injured captain Christian Pulisic.

The Americans claimed their second successive win of the tournament and advanced from Group D after producing a dominant display against the Socceroos.

Pulisic, who missed the match with a calf injury, was absent from the starting line-up, but Mauricio Pochettino’s side showed their growing depth by comfortably securing all three points.

The United States took the lead in the 11th minute when Australia defender Cameron Burgess inadvertently turned Folarin Balogun’s cross into his own net while attempting to clear the danger.

Balogun, who scored twice in the Americans’ opening 4-1 victory over Paraguay, was again influential and played a key role in creating the breakthrough.

The lead was doubled two minutes before half-time when 21-year-old Alex Freeman headed home after a set-piece scramble. The goal, Freeman’s first at a World Cup, was confirmed following a VAR review.

Coach Mauricio Pochettino praised the young defender’s rapid development.

“The evolution is massive. He’s so humble. He wants to learn and always listens,” Pochettino said.

Although the United States failed to add to their tally after the break, they remained firmly in control and restricted Australia to few clear opportunities.

Australia coach Tony Popovic acknowledged the quality of the American performance.

“It did not surprise us because their quality is clear. Their power is clear. Their athleticism is clear,” he said.

The victory means the United States have won consecutive World Cup matches for the first time since the inaugural tournament in 1930. The team has now scored six goals in two matches and continues to build momentum on home soil.

Despite Pulisic’s absence, the Americans demonstrated the strength of their squad, with Ricardo Pepi stepping into the starting line-up and contributing to an impressive all-round display.

“We know how vital Christian is to the team,” Freeman said. “But it shows how strong our roster is.”

The result strengthens expectations that the United States could make a deep run in the expanded 48-team tournament as they prepare for the knockout rounds.