Mauricio Pochettino’s USA confirmed their spot in the knock-out stages with a confident 2-0 win over Australia thanks to a Christian Burgess own goal and an Alex Freeman header.

The hosts started in fine form in a febrile atmosphere, despite the absence of star man Christian Pulisic.

With seemingly relentless pressure on Australia, it seemed almost fitting that the opener would come via an own goal. Cameron Burgess was the unfortunate defender on the end of Folarin Balogun’s cross after he broke clear on the left hand side.

Almost immediately afterwards, Weston McKennie had a chance to make it two, but handball was given against him after his header bounced back off the defender and struck his arm.

The Stars and Stripes had their second on the stroke of half-time when Alex Freeman headed in from close range after Antonee Robinson’s powerful shot deflected up into his path. The offside flag went up – but the VAR overturned the decision and the hosts had doubled their advantage.

Balogun arguably should’ve made it three in the opening stages of the second half as he raced clear of the Australia defence but a poor touch allowed Alessandro Circati to recover and block his shot.

The Socceroos had their first real chance of the game just after the hour mark. Nestory Irankunda broke free down the right and pulled back for substitute Cristian Volpato, who blazed over the bar.

But try as they might, Australia couldn’t find a way back into the game as USA controlled the remainder of proceedings to see out the win.

This was a performance made very much in the Mauricio Pochettino mould. Will other nations start to sit up and take notice of the hosts now?

USA vs Australia result, highlights & stats

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