Mauricio Pochettino is expected to stick with a settled XI as the United States look to strengthen their grip on Group D.

The United States will face Australia in a crucial Group D clash at the FIFA World Cup 2026, knowing that a second consecutive victory could put them within touching distance of the knockout stages. The USA national football team made an impressive start to their campaign with a commanding 4-1 win over Paraguay, showcasing the attacking quality and intensity that have become trademarks of Mauricio Pochettino’s side.

Playing on home soil has only added to the growing optimism surrounding the team. With momentum firmly on their side and Australia expected to provide a stern challenge, Pochettino is unlikely to make major changes to a lineup that delivered such a convincing performance in the tournament opener.

With confidence high following their opening victory, the United States will be eager to maintain their momentum against Australia. Pochettino is expected to place his trust in a familiar lineup as the Stars and Stripes look to take another major step towards the knockout rounds.

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Who all will be in USA lineup for FIFA World Cup 2026 clash against Australia?

Matt Turner is expected to continue as the United States’ first-choice goalkeeper. The experienced shot-stopper provides composure, leadership and reliability between the posts. His shot-stopping ability and command of the penalty area will be important against an Australian side capable of creating danger through crosses and set-pieces.

Pochettino is expected to continue with a back four that combines defensive solidity with attacking intent from wide areas. Sergiño Dest and Antonee Robinson are likely to occupy the full-back positions, providing width and attacking support whenever the United States move forward. Both players are capable of stretching opposition defences through their overlapping runs and delivery into the box.

At the heart of the defence, Chris Richards is expected to partner Tim Ream. Richards offers athleticism and composure on the ball, while Ream brings experience and leadership to the backline. Together, they will be tasked with keeping Australia’s physical attackers under control.

The midfield remains one of the strongest areas of the American squad and could once again play a decisive role. Tyler Adams is expected to sit at the base of midfield, breaking up attacks and controlling the tempo of the game. Alongside him, Weston McKennie will provide energy, ball progression and a threat in advanced areas.

Further forward, Giovanni Reyna is likely to operate as the team’s chief creator. His vision and technical ability make him one of the most important players in unlocking opposition defences.

The United States possesses one of the most exciting attacking trios in the tournament. Timothy Weah is expected to start on the right flank, using his pace and direct running to trouble defenders. On the opposite wing, Christian Pulisic will once again carry much of the team’s creative responsibility while also posing a significant goalscoring threat.

Leading the line, Folarin Balogun is expected to spearhead the attack. His movement, finishing ability and intelligent positioning make him the focal point of the American frontline.

USA Predicted line-up vs Australia

USA predicted line-up (4-2-3-1): Matt Turner, Sergiño Dest, Chris Richards, Tim Ream, Antonee Robinson, Tyler Adams, Weston McKennie, Giovanni Reyna, Timothy Weah, Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun

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