According to Yonhap News on June 20, the match took place at Seattle Stadium in Washington state. The U.S. maintained its lead in Group D with a second consecutive victory, having previously beaten Paraguay 4-1, earning a total of six points.
The U.S. became the second team to advance from the group stage, following Mexico, which secured its spot the previous day with a 1-0 win over South Korea.
Despite the absence of captain Christian Pulisic due to a calf injury, the U.S. took control early in the match.
The opening goal came in the 11th minute when Folarin Balogun broke down the left flank and sent a pass into the center. Australian defender Cameron Burgess attempted to clear the ball but inadvertently scored an own goal, putting the U.S. ahead.
The U.S. extended its lead in the 43rd minute. Following a free kick, Sergiño Dest connected with the loose ball, and Alexander Freeman headed it into the net. Initially ruled offside, the goal was confirmed after a video review.
Trailing by two goals, Australia made several substitutions at the start of the second half to mount a comeback.
In the 62nd minute, Cristian Volpato had a crucial shooting opportunity but sent the ball over the crossbar. Later, in the 85th minute, Jason Geria's shot was blocked by the U.S. defense, thwarting Australia's efforts to close the gap.
The match concluded with a 2-0 victory for the United States.
The U.S. will face Turkey in its final group stage match on June 26 at Los Angeles Stadium. Australia will play Paraguay on the same day at the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, vying for a chance to advance to the Round of 32.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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