2026 World Cup: What to know as USA soccer plays Australia in Seattle
The Seattle Times • • sports
Key Points:
- Seattle Stadium will host a crucial Group D match in the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup on Friday at noon, featuring the United States versus Australia, with a knockout stage spot at stake.
- The USMNT, led by coach Mauricio Pochettino, aims to build on their dominant 4-1 win over Paraguay, while Australia, known for its disciplined defense, recently upset Turkey and seeks to continue its strong World Cup form.
- Key players include US striker Folarin Balogun, who scored twice in his World Cup debut, and Australian goalkeeper Patrick Beach, who impressed with an eight-save performance against Turkey.
- The match will contrast the US’s possession-based, high-press style against Australia’s low-block, counterattacking approach, with set pieces posing a significant threat from the Socceroos.
- The prediction favors the United States to win 2-0, securing qualification to the knockout stage and continuing their momentum in the tournament.
