The United States secured a place in the World Cup knockout stage with one group match remaining after defeating Australia 2-0 on Friday, further fueling excitement among home supporters.
The Americans became the second team to book a spot in the next round after fellow co-hosts Mexico. They could also finish top of Group D if Turkey fail to overcome Paraguay later on Friday.
Confidence was already soaring following the United States’ emphatic victory over Paraguay in their opening match, and the atmosphere in Seattle reflected that optimism.
Fans dressed in red, white and blue flooded Lumen Field and nearby entertainment spots, creating a festive mood throughout the city.
Chants of “USA” echoed around the stadium long before kickoff at the venue better known as the home of NFL champions the Seattle Seahawks and Major League Soccer side Seattle Sounders.
With injured captain Christian Pulisic unavailable due to a calf problem, coach Mauricio Pochettino adjusted his setup to a 4-4-2 formation and handed Ricardo Pepi a starting role alongside Folarin Balogun.
The hosts made another fast start and took the lead in the 11th minute courtesy of an Australian own goal.
Balogun broke down the left wing before delivering a low cross into the penalty area. Under pressure from Pepi, defender Cameron Burgess inadvertently turned the ball into his own net.
Australia, who surprisingly left out both scorers from their opening victory over Turkey, struggled to threaten going forward.
The United States dominated possession and looked dangerous in attack, with Weston McKennie and Sergino Dest frequently combining on the right flank.
Their advantage doubled just before halftime when Alex Freeman found the net in the 44th minute.
A free kick from Antonee Robinson near the right byline bypassed the crowded penalty area and reached Dest on the edge of the box. His effort was blocked and looped into the air, allowing Freeman to react quickest and head beyond goalkeeper Patrick Beach.
Although the assistant referee initially raised the offside flag, a VAR review overturned the decision, sparking celebrations among the home crowd.
Australia responded by introducing Connor Metcalfe and Nestory Irankunda at the start of the second half, with both players having scored against Turkey in their opening game.
The visitors nearly conceded again moments later when Balogun raced clear on goal, but a heavy touch allowed defenders to recover and block his shot.
Australia’s best opportunity arrived in the 62nd minute after Irankunda cut the ball back for Cristian Volpato, who had switched international allegiance from Italy to Australia shortly before the tournament. However, Volpato fired over the crossbar from a promising position.
As the Americans sat deeper to protect their lead, Australia pushed forward in search of a breakthrough.
Metcalfe forced a save, Irankunda was brought down by Chris Richards during a dangerous run, and Jason Geria saw a close-range attempt blocked.
Despite increasing pressure and some late confrontations between players, the United States remained composed to preserve a clean sheet and secure qualification for the round of 32.
Pochettino’s side will now face Turkey next Thursday with their place in the knockout rounds already guaranteed.
Backed by home support and buoyed by impressive early-tournament form, American fans will be hoping their team can match or surpass the quarter-final run achieved at the 2002 World Cup.
