The Football Faithful
·19 juin 2026
Australia XI vs USA – Predicted lineup and team news

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Yahoo sportsThe Football Faithful
·19 juin 2026

Australia arrive at Lumen Field in Seattle tonight, brimming with confidence after one of the tournament’s standout results so far.
Tony Popovic earned widespread praise for masterminding a disciplined tactical display against fancied Turkey on matchday one. The Socceroos willingly surrendered possession, hit Turkiye on the counter, and walked away with a 2-0 victory that few saw coming. Another positive result tonight against the hosts, the USA, would put this squad on the verge of the knockout rounds.
Popovic has a largely fit squad at his disposal ahead of the Seattle fixture. The one concern is Mo Touré, who suffered cramp late in the Turkiye match and has been assessed since, though he remains in contention to lead the line tonight. The coaching staff will have monitored his recovery closely, given Australia conceded 72% possession in the opener — a physically demanding shift for every player on the pitch.
Patrick Beach keeps his place in goal after a stunning competitive international debut against Turkiye, in which the 22-year-old made eight saves to preserve a clean sheet.
Harry Souttar anchors the back three once more, with Cameron Burgess and Alessandro Circati providing physical presence on either side. Jacob Italiano and Jordy Bos are set to resume their demanding wing-back roles.
Aiden O’Neill and Paul Okon-Engstler form a tireless defensive screen in midfield. Connor Metcalfe, who scored against Turkey, pushes from an advanced position to support the attack. Nestory Irankunda — Australia’s youngest-ever World Cup scorer — provides the explosive pace to threaten on the counter.
The Group D fixture takes place on Friday, 19 June 2026, with kick-off at 20:00 BST at Lumen Field in Seattle.
UK viewers can watch the match live and free-to-air on BBC One, with a live stream available via BBC iPlayer.







































