The United States secured a 2-0 victory over Australia on Friday and booked their place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32. Despite missing star attacker Christian Pulisic, the Americans delivered a strong performance and qualified for the knockout rounds with one group-stage match still left to play.

Pulisic Misses Match Due to Injury

Pulisic was unavailable for the Group D clash in Seattle after suffering a calf injury during the USA’s opening victory over Paraguay. His absence left the co-hosts without their most influential attacking player.

Head coach Mauricio Pochettino admitted that the team would have preferred to have Pulisic available but said the player was not fit enough to feature.

“It’s always difficult because we want to have all the players,” Pochettino said. “Christian is an important player for us, but … it was impossible today for him to play. We hope that next game he will be available.”

USA Take Control Early

The Americans made a positive start and took the lead in the 11th minute. Australia’s Cameron Burgess accidentally scored an own goal, giving the hosts an early advantage.

The USA continued to push forward and doubled their lead shortly before halftime. Alex Freeman headed the ball into the net, although the goal was initially ruled offside. After a VAR review, officials overturned the decision and awarded the goal, putting the Americans firmly in control.

Knockout Spot Secured

The victory moved the United States to six points in Group D and guaranteed qualification for the knockout stage. With one group match still remaining, the Americans have already secured their place in the next round and can now focus on building momentum for the latter stages of the tournament.

Pochettino Stresses Team Effort

Although Pulisic remains one of the team's most important players, Pochettino emphasized that World Cup success depends on the entire squad rather than one individual. “If we want to win the competition, we need the whole team,” he said. “All the players need to ⁠⁠be important.

“Of course, Christian is one of the best players in the world. I hope that he can ⁠⁠recover as soon as possible and can ⁠⁠enjoy being on the pitch and helping the team.”

The coach said every player must contribute if the USA hopes to make a deep run in the tournament.

McKennie Praises Squad Depth

Midfielder Weston McKennie praised the team's versatility and depth following the victory. According to McKennie, the squad is capable of adapting to different styles of football and has players who can handle both physical battles and possession-based play.

“We can play the ‌‌physical game because we have guys on the field who are ready to step up for that, and we have guys with quality who can ‌‌play possession-based football,” he said. His comments highlighted the confidence within the squad and the belief that different players can step up when needed.

Focus Turns to Turkiye

The United States will conclude its Group D campaign against Turkiye on Thursday at Los Angeles Stadium. With qualification already secured, the Americans will look to maintain their winning form and potentially welcome Pulisic back into the squad as they prepare for the knockout rounds.