The American national team booked its first place in the fourth group to the round of 32 in the 2026 World Cup, after defeating Australia 2-0, on Friday, in the second round of the group stage. The American team became the second to qualify for the elimination rounds after Mexico, after raising its score to six points from two consecutive victories, ensuring passage before the end of the first round. The hosts opened the scoring early in the 11th minute after Australian defender Cameron Burgess accidentally diverted a ball into his own net following a run and cross pass from Folarin Balogun. Before the end of the first half, Alex Freeman increased the United States' lead with a second goal from a header, which was awarded after reviewing the video assistant referee technology, after it was initially ruled out for offside.