Match Preview for USA v Australia
The United States continue their build-up to hosting the 2026 World Cup with another international friendly, facing Australia at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Colorado.
The visitors come into this one 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 USA impressed in their 1-1 draw with Ecuador, dominating possession (66%) and registering five shots on target. Despite going behind early to Enner Valencia’s strike, Mauricio Pochettino’s side fought back.
Pochettino’s decision to switch to a 3-4-2-1 system paid off, showing his willingness to adapt tactically. The Americans haven’t faced Australia since 2010, but both sides have evolved significantly 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 heading into this clash. After edging Canada thanks to teenage star Nestory Irankunda’s goal, the Aussies will relish another test against elite opposition on American soil.
Team news for USA v Australia
Christian Pulisic made only a brief substitute appearance against Ecuador as he continues to manage an ankle issue, and Mauricio Pochettino may opt to rest his captain again.
Tim Weah impressed in a right wing-back role and is expected to continue there, while Folarin Balogun – who netted the equaliser last time out – should retain his place up front.
For Australia, Paul Izzo’s superb performance against Canada, which included eight saves, gives Popovic a selection dilemma in goal, though captain Matt Ryan is likely to return.
Irankunda’s sparkling display makes him almost certain to start again, while the rest of the lineup could remain unchanged after a strong showing.
Expected line-ups for USA v Australia
USA: Freese; Robinson, Richards, Ream; Weah, Roldan, Morris, Arftsen; McKennie, Tillman; Balogun
Australia: Ryan; Italiano, Circati, Degenek, Burgess, Rowles; Metcalfe, O’Neill, Balard, Irankunda; Toure
How to watch USA v 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 through 10 Play and Paramount+. Kick-off is scheduled for 8:00pm local time (10:00pm ET).
The stats for USA v Australia
- USA are unbeaten in their last three home games (W2, D1)
- Australia have won their last seven matches in all competitions
- Both teams have scored in four of the USA’s previous six fixtures
- The Socceroos have kept five clean sheets during their 11-match unbeaten run
Prediction
Both teams are in confident form but will be wary of pushing too hard ahead of future commitments. With similar tactical setups and solid defensive structures, a draw seems the most likely outcome in Colorado.
Prediction: USA 1-1 Australia
