Despite a spirited fight back from a Victory-influenced Green and Gold side, Australia were outdone by a strong first half from the USA in their second 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup match.
Aiming to back up an emphatic two-goal win over Türkiye in Vancouver, former Victory Head Coach Tony Popovic would make two changes to his starting XI that would go to battle against the hosting USA in Seattle.
After a promising spell off the bench in the opening fixture, Melbourne Victory’s Nishan Velupillay would be named in the starting lineup.
While the 25-year-old displayed his vast pace and explosiveness in pressing the USA backline, the hosts enjoyed great domination over the first half and vastly limited the Socceroos’ attacking play.
Velupillay would be involved in Australia’s best chance of the half, receiving the ball just inside the box and holding it up well for the onrushing Mathew Leckie, who would spray his effort just wide of the goal frame.
However, goals in the 11th and 44th minute would see Mauricio Pochettino’s side lead 2-0 at half-time.
Looking to his bench to freshen up the team for the second 45, Tony Popovic would introduce former Victory defender Jason Geria into the backline, while Velupillay would make way.
The Socceroos would have a much-improved half, controlling play much better and creating more chances than the USA, but ultimately lacking the final touches to find the back of the net.
Needing to pick their heads up to complete their third and final Group D schedule, Australia take on Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium on Friday, June 26, kick-off 12pm AEST
