The United States put up a dominant show despite missing Christian Pulisic, as the co-hosts beat Australia 2-0 on Friday, courtesy an early own goal and through an Alex Freeman header.
Just as they did in their 4-1 win over Paraguay, the United States got an early breakthrough thanks to an own goal, with Australia’s Cameron Burgess accidentally putting the ball into his own net.
The U.S. doubled their lead just before half-time when Freeman headed home from close range. The goal was first ruled out for offside, but a VAR review overturned the decision, sparking wild celebrations from the U.S. bench.
Australia coach Tony Popovic made changes at half-time, bringing on goalscorers Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe after leaving them out of the starting lineup following the team’s 2-0 win over Turkey.
The Australians improved after the break but struggled to create clear chances and never seriously threatened a comeback in a scrappy second half.
The victory moved the U.S. to six points and secured their place in the Round of 32 with one group game still to play. They face Turkey in Los Angeles on Thursday and coach Mauricio Pochettino hopes Christian Pulisic will be fit to return.
Playing in front of a loud, packed crowd, the U.S. started a little nervously but quickly settled into the game. Weston McKennie was particularly influential as the Americans took control and went ahead in the 11th minute.
Folarin Balogun burst down the left wing and sent a cross towards Ricardo Pepi, who was filling in for the injured Pulisic. Burgess, trying to clear the danger, accidentally turned the ball into his own net.
Australia struggled to get out of their own half as the U.S. dominated possession. Their best chance of the first half came shortly before the cooling break when Freeman blocked a dangerous cross from Mathew Leckie.
The Americans finally got the second goal in the 43rd minute. A free kick reached Sergino Dest, whose shot was blocked and looped into the air. With goalkeeper Patrick Beach on the ground, Freeman was left with a simple header into an empty net.
