Following a feisty friendly, a World Cup showdown awaits USA-Australia in Seattle

The United States men’s national team made a statement to open its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, routing Paraguay 4-1 last week behind two goals from Folarin Balogun.

Australia lost 2-1, the first defeat for Popovic as national team coach, but few Americans have forgotten about some of the bone-rattling challenges made by Socceroos players, and how a tackle from defender Jason Geria left their star player Christian Pulisic injured for a month.

Christian Pulisic battling to prove fitness for USA before Australia game

The USMNT held a 3-0 halftime lead over Paraguay in their opener last week, and while Folarin Balogun scored the brace, Christian Pulisic was everywhere.