United States 2–0 Australia · USA qualify in Seattle without Pulisic — World Cup 2026
Even without Christian Pulisic, the United States handled the job calmly in Seattle.
The game tilted early toward the Americans when Cameron Burgess turned Folarin Balogun's cross into his own net in the 11th minute. Just before half-time, Alex Freeman headed in a second goal, initially flagged offside but awarded after VAR. Australia pushed after the break, but created no big chance and rarely troubled Matt Freese.
Alex Freeman, 21, wrote his own World Cup moment. The Orlando defender scored his first goal on this stage and showed Mauricio Pochettino that the squad has depth even without its biggest star.
The United States has six points and is guaranteed to top Group D. Australia will face Paraguay in a direct fight for second place.
A mature, controlled win for the co-hosts, who move forward with confidence.

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