Haji Wright scored twice as the USA came from behind to defeat Australia 2-1 in an international friendly at Dick’s Sporting Goods Stadium in Colorado. The victory came at the expense of a first loss for Australia’s new manager, Tony Popovic, and denied the Socceroos a chance to improve their FIFA rankings before the 2026 World Cup.
The match began with the USA dominating possession and controlling the tempo of the game. However, it was Australia who struck first. In the 19th minute, left-back Jordy Bos latched onto a mis-cleared throw-in and, after breezing past a few defenders, unleashed a powerful half-volley into the far corner of the net to give the Socceroos a 1-0 lead. Despite their dominance in possession, the USA struggled to break down Australia’s defense in the first half.
The key moment for the hosts came in the 27th minute when captain Christian Pulisic was forced to leave the pitch due to an injury after a strong challenge from Socceroos defender Jason Geria. Pulisic, who had just returned to the starting lineup after recovering from an ankle injury, hobbled off, and Diego Luna came on to replace him. Luna’s introduction sparked the USA into life, with a well-placed through-ball from Cristian Roldan finding Wright, who coolly finished to make it 1-1.
The USA grew in confidence after the equalizer and continued to press. Wright, who had been quiet for much of the first half, made a crucial impact again in the second half. A quick free-kick from the USA caught the Australian defense off guard, and Wright, with a sharp turn, curled a perfect shot past goalkeeper Mat Ryan to give the hosts the lead at 2-1.
Australia, despite a bright start to the second half, couldn’t find an equalizer. Bos remained a constant threat on the left wing, but his efforts were either blocked or misdirected. Mo Toure and Nestory Irankundo were brought on to freshen up the attack, but the Socceroos couldn’t break down the USA defense. The closest they came was a weak shot from Irankundo in the final minutes that was easily gathered by goalkeeper Matt Freese.
With the victory, the USA secured a much-needed win ahead of next year’s World Cup, while Australia’s hopes of climbing the FIFA rankings were dashed, leaving Popovic with plenty to ponder before the tournament.
