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

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Yahoo sportsThe Football Faithful
·19 juin 2026

The USA head to Seattle tonight looking to secure a second consecutive World Cup victory.
Mauricio Pochettino has generated real optimism across the host nation following an emphatic opening in Group D. The Stars and Stripes outclassed Paraguay with a relentless attacking display, and that performance has raised expectations for a squad aiming to go deep into the tournament. Sustaining that intensity across a demanding group stage remains their primary challenge.
All eyes in the American camp are on Christian Pulisic ahead of kick-off. The captain picked up a leg injury and was substituted at half-time against Paraguay, and has since been limited to individual training away from the main squad. Pochettino may opt to manage his minutes to avoid risking a more serious setback.
Should Pulisic not be risked, the manager has options. Alex Zendejas is the direct replacement on the flank, while Malik Tillman could push into a more advanced role to support the frontline. Tyler Adams provides defensive protection in midfield, with Weston McKennie and Gio Reyna expected to drive the offensive tempo from central positions.
Tim Ream leads the defensive line, with Alex Freeman and Chris Richards alongside him. Antonee Robinson completes the back four. Matt Freese starts in goal as the hosts chase a first clean sheet. Folarin Balogun, who scored twice on his World Cup debut against Paraguay, leads the attack.
USA possible starting XI: Freese; Freeman, Richards, Ream, Robinson; Adams, Tillman; Zendejas, McKennie, Reyna; Balogun
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.







































