USA vs Australia predictions as USMNT look to take a step closer to the World Cup knockout stages

Folarin Balogun running in celebration after scoring for USA against Paraguay at the World Cup 2026. — USA beat Paraguay 4-1 in their opening fixture (Image credit: Getty Images)

The second round of matches in Group D are set to go ahead this evening, starting with USA vs Australia.

Both sides got off to a great start in their opening fixtures, with USA beating Paraguay 4-1 and Australia shocking Turkiye 2-0.

A win would all but guarantee qualification to the knockout stages for either side, but who is most likely to claim three points?

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USA vs Australia odds from BOYLE SPORTS

USA WIN - 6/10
Draw - 16/5
Australia WIN - 15/4

USA vs Australia predictions

The hosts are the heavy favourites for this evening's game, and if they can make the most of the home advantage, then they have a great chance of winning.

However, Australia are a tough side and won't make life easy for the home side.

Expect USA to have a lot of the ball, with the hosts preferring proactive possession-based football, while their opponents favour counter-attacking and hitting teams on the break.

The game could hinge on the availability of Christian Pulisic, the USA's star man, who was taken off during his nation's win against Paraguay.

He has trained in the days leading up to the United game, but only in a limited individual capacity, so there's a chance he isn't available.

However, even if Pulisic isn't fit enough to play, the USMNT have a strong enough squad that they should still be able to cause Australia plenty of problems.

They should be able to make the most of the Seattle crowd to avoid the upset.

Score prediction: USA 2-1 Australia

Australia celebrate Nestory Irankunda's opener against Turkiye — Australia could cause USA some problems in tonight's match (Image credit: Getty Images)

How to watch USA vs Australia

You can watch USA vs Australia in Group D of World Cup 2026 for free. All the information you need is in our how to watch guide.

The match will be broadcast live on BBC in the UK, FOX in the United States and SBS in Australia.

What's your USA vs Australia prediction? Let us know below...

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Ryan Gray is a freelance writer, covering mainly travel and occasionally sport. He previously spent two years as Sports Editor at the Watford Observer before turning his hand to travel writing, with his work appearing in various national UK publications. He has gone from providing matchday commentary for Blyth Spartans to covering FA Cup and Euros finals, as well as interviewing the likes of Claudio Ranieri, Alan Shearer and Glenn Hoddle, among other big names.