The United States will look to take another major step toward the FIFA World Cup knockout stages when they face Australia in Seattle on Friday, but Mauricio Pochettino’s side know they cannot afford to underestimate a Socceroos team already capable of producing one of the tournament’s biggest surprises.
The tournament co-hosts emphatically opened their World Cup campaign, defeating Paraguay 4-1 to send a strong message to the rest of the field. Folarin Balogun starred with a brace as the Americans produced one of the most complete performances of the opening round.
With home support behind them and confidence growing, the Stars and Stripes enter the contest as favourites. However, Australia’s shock victory over Turkey has ensured that Friday’s clash is far from a straightforward assignment.
USA Building Momentum
Pochettino could hardly have asked for a better start to his World Cup campaign. His side played with intensity, movement, and attacking purpose against Paraguay, overwhelming the South Americans with their pace and pressing.
Balogun’s clinical finishing provided the headlines, but the overall team display demonstrated why many observers believe the United States can become one of the tournament’s dark horses.
Playing in front of another passionate home crowd in Seattle, the Americans know that a second victory would place them firmly on the brink of qualification for the knockout rounds.
Australia Already Defying Expectations
Australia arrive with plenty of belief after upsetting Turkey in their opening Group D encounter.
Despite spending long periods without possession, Tony Popovic’s youthful side defended resolutely and struck at key moments to secure a memorable victory. Young forward Nestory Irankunda announced himself on the global stage, while the Australians showed remarkable discipline under pressure.
The Socceroos may once again concede possession against the United States, but their counter-attacking threat and defensive organisation could make them dangerous opponents.
Key Battle
One of the game’s most intriguing battles could come between Balogun and Australia’s defence.
The American striker looked sharp against Paraguay, combining intelligent movement with clinical finishing. Australia, meanwhile, successfully absorbed sustained pressure against Turkey and will need another disciplined performance to contain the United States attack.
At the other end, Irankunda’s pace and creativity could provide Australia’s best route to goal.
Prediction
The United States possess greater attacking depth, home advantage and momentum following their opening victory. However, Australia’s confidence and ability to frustrate stronger opponents suggest they will not make life easy for Pochettino’s men.
Prediction: USA 2-1 Australia
The Stars and Stripes may have enough quality to secure a second successive victory, but the Socceroos appear capable of making the hosts work hard for all three points.
