The United States team hosts Australia this Friday (19), at 4pm (Brasília time), at Lumen Field, in Seattle. The duel is valid for the second round of Group D of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and could bring one of the teams closer to qualifying for the round of 16 in advance.
Both teams arrive with 3 points after victories in their debut. The home team beat Paraguay 4-1, while the Australians surprised Turkey 2-0. The winner of the match takes the lead in the group.
Confirmed formations and lineups
Mauricio Pochettino’s USA take to the field in 4-2-3-1: M. Freese; A. Freeman, C. Richards, T. Ream (c), A. Robinson; M. Tillman, T. Adams; S. Dest, W. McKennie, R. Pepi; F. Balogun.
Christian Pulisic, the team’s main name, is out with a calf muscle injury. The captain was rested and continues to recover, but the team has offensive options such as Balogun and Pepi.
Tony Popovic’s Australia adopts 5-4-1: M. Ryan; J. Italiano, A. Circati, H. Souttar (c), C. Burgess, J. Bos; M. Leckie, A. O’Neill, C. Metcalfe, N. Velupillay; M. Touré (or options like Irankunda in attack).
The Socceroos rely on a compact defensive line and quick transitions, taking advantage of the speed of players like Nestory Irankunda.
What’s at stake in Group D
With the victory, the USA can guarantee an early place in the round of 16, something that would increase positive pressure on the host team. Australia needs to score points to keep its chance of advancing alive, repeating the spirit that yielded victory over Turkey.
Where to watch live in Brazil
The transmission is carried out by CazéTV (YouTube), with additional options on Betano and Prime Video, according to the programming guides. The match can also be followed in real time on specialized apps and websites.
Tactical and historical context
Pochettino has assembled a team with a balance of European experience and MLS talent. Pulisic’s absence forces adjustments in the attack, but the midfield with Adams and McKennie should control the actions. On the other side, Popovic prioritizes solidity at the back to explore counterattacks.
The teams have faced each other a few times, with the American advantage in recent clashes, but the World Cup brings a different dynamic, especially on neutral territory for the Australians.
The referee is German Felix Zwayer, known for his rigor in disciplinary decisions.