2026 World Cup: United States join Mexico in round of 16

The United States qualified for the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup after their 2-0 victory over Australia on Friday evening at Lumen Field in Seattle. With six points from two matches, the Americans are assured of finishing in the top two of Group D.

Australian defender Cameron Burgess opened the scoring with an own goal in the eleventh minute, giving the Americans an early advantage. Just before half-time, Alex Freeman doubled the lead with a header. Initially ruled out for offside, the goal was ultimately awarded after VAR intervention (2-0, 45’).

In the second half, Tony Popović’s Australians showed more resistance than in the first half, but failed to reduce the deficit. Australia remains in contention but sees its room for maneuver considerably reduced.

The United States thus join Mexico, the first team qualified from Group D after their 1-0 victory over South Korea. The previous night, Canada, another host nation, had crushed Qatar 6-0. The three host nations are therefore showing impressive form at the start of the tournament.

Group D’s final standings will be determined in the match between Turkey and Paraguay, with the winner joining Australia on three points. In case of a draw, both teams would remain on one point, further complicating their chances of qualification.