After their best World Cup performance of the modern era, the United States takes the pitch at Lumen Field to face in Australia in a match where a winner would take the Group, securing advancement to the Round of 32. Neither side can be eliminated under the bluest skies of Puget Sound.
The biggest question on the pitch for the United States is "will Christian Pulisic play?" Pulled early in the win over Paraguay, the star winger was limited in practice during the week. But, this is the World Cup. There are not second chances.
There are a couple motivations for squad rotation during the 39-day tournament to determine the best nation in the world. This is the last time there will be a week between games.
Additionally yellow card accumulation is fast in the tournament. A yellow today means that Tyler Adams would be forced to sit in the final Group Stage match against Türkiye.
The situation gives some hope for local Seattle Sounders fans to see Cristian Roldan start. With a light amount of more defensive midfielders on the roster, head coach Mauricio Pochettino may choose to move Malikk Tillman forward to where Pulisic played, rest Adams in card avoidance or to rest someone in order to start Seattle's captain on his home pitch in what should be the loudest USMNT environment in history.
United States vs. Australia
Time: Noon (Pacific)
Where: Lumen Field, Seattle, Washington, the great Pacific Northwest
TV: Fox, Telemundo
Online: Fox One, Peacock
Jaya Parsons
Jeremiah Oshan
Seattle's opening World Cup matchday saw the light rail system with its third-highest ridership ever. Expect even larger crowds today.
Jeremiah Oshan
Notes
- Folarin Balogun's two goals match global stars for third on the charts so far, only behind MLS's Messi and Canadian Johnathan David.
- Both Australia goals in their opening win came in the second half, after the second hydration break.
- Seattle's weather is supposed to be an ideal 74 at kick, topping out in the upper 70s by the final whistle. It should be partly cloudy with higher than typical humidity. There should be no impact from heat due to the earlier kickoff.
- Sounder at Heart is hosting a viewing party at Fast Fashion SoDo.
