USA-Australia Match Preview
The United States continues its preparations to host the 2026 World Cup with another international friendly match, facing Australia at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Colorado.
The visitors go into this match buoyed by a 1-0 win over Canada last weekend and will be hoping to claim another scalp against one of next summer’s co-hosts.
The United States impressed in their 1-1 draw against Ecuador, dominating possession (66%) and recording five shots on target. Despite falling behind early to an Enner Valencia goal, Mauricio Pochettino’s side fought back.
Pochettino’s decision to switch to the 3-4-2-1 system has paid off, demonstrating his willingness to adapt tactically. The Americans haven’t faced Australia since 2010, but both teams have improved considerably since then.
Meanwhile, Tony Popovic’s Australia are in remarkable form: unbeaten in 11 matches and victorious in their last seven.
The Socceroos’ recent success under Popovic, who remains undefeated as coach, has them full of confidence ahead of this clash. After edging out Canada thanks to a goal from teenage star Nestory Irankunda, the Australians will relish another test against elite opposition on American soil.
Team news for USA vs Australia
Christian Pulisic made only a brief substitute appearance against Ecuador as he continues to deal with an ankle problem, and Mauricio Pochettino may opt to rest his captain again.
Tim Weah has impressed in a right-back role and should continue there, while Folarin Balogun – who equalized last time – should retain his place up front.
For Australia, Paul Izzo’s superb performance against Canada, which included eight saves, leaves Popovic with a selection dilemma in goal, although captain Matt Ryan is likely to return.
Irankunda’s sparkling performance makes him almost certain to start again, while the rest of the roster could remain unchanged after a strong performance.
Expected lineups for USA vs Australia
USA: Release; Robinson, Richards, Rame; Weah, Roldan, Morris, Arftsen; McKennie, Tillman; Balogun
Australia: Ryan; Italian, Circati, Degenk, Burgess, Rowles; Metcalfe, O’Neill, Balard, I love me; Toure
How to watch USA vs Australia: TV channel, online stream
The match at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park will be available to stream live via ESPN+ in the United States, while Australian viewers can watch it via 10 Play and Paramount+. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. local time (10:00 p.m. ET).
USA-Australia match statistics
- The United States is undefeated in its last three home matches (W2 D1)
- Australia have won their last seven matches in all competitions
- Both teams have scored in four of the United States’ last six meetings.
- The Socceroos have kept five clean sheets during their 11-match unbeaten run.
Prediction
Both teams are in great shape but will be careful not to do too much before their future commitments. With similar tactical setups and solid defensive structures, a draw seems the most likely outcome in Colorado.
Prediction: USA 1-1 Australia
