The Stars and Stripes · Group D
The United States are co-hosts and lead the tournament's organisation alongside Canada and Mexico. Coached by Mauricio Pochettino and led by Christian Pulisic, they boast their most talented squad in a generation. Home advantage raises hopes of a deep run.
Key squad members (selected). Full match-day squads update from the live feed.
Australia and the United States kicked off their World Cup campaigns with impressive victories, setting up a heavyweight clash that could shape Group D’s hierarchy. We analyze tactical keys, player storylines, and where the contest might be won or lost.
Australia kicked off their World Cup campaign with a clinical 2-0 victory over Turkey in Group D. With momentum building, Tony Popovic’s side set their sights on a pivotal clash against the high-flying United States, where a result could all but secure a place in the knockout phase.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has kicked off with Mexico edging South Korea 2-1 at the iconic Estadio Azteca. With 48 teams, three host countries and 16 cities, this is the biggest World Cup in history. Here is what the opening matches told us and what to expect next.
The United States opened their home World Cup with a 2-0 win over Australia, easing early nerves around the co-host nation. With Christian Pulisic leading a talented young squad, expectations have never been higher, but neither has the pressure to deliver on home soil.
The 2026 World Cup is the first with 48 teams, and the format has changed accordingly. We break down the 12-group structure, how teams qualify for the knockouts, and how the expanded bracket runs all the way to the final at MetLife Stadium.