Poll: Can USMNT Go 2-0 in World Cup Play?

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Now that the NBA and NHL playoffs are in the rearview mirror, sports fans in America can focus more squarely on the 2026 World Cup and the journey of the U.S. men's soccer team.

The USMNT made a major statement last week in their opening game, a dominant 4-1 victory over Paraguay. The team's second game in Group D play is this afternoon against Australia (3 p.m. ET, Fox).

Folarin Balogun had two of the USMNT's four goals vs. Paraguay. Team captain Christian Pulisic assisted on Balogun's second goal before leaving the match with an injury. Manager Mauricio Pochettino said Pulisic will be ready to play today.

While the USMNT's win was impressive, Australia produced one of the biggest opening-game upsets with a win over Turkey. So if the U.S. wins today, it will put the team in great shape to finish atop Group D and clinch a berth in the Round of 32.

So…

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This story was originally published June 19, 2026 at 4:30 AM.