SEATTLE (KFOX 14, CBS 4) — El Paso native Ricardo Pepi played 74 minutes to help the United States to a 2-0 victory over Australia in the second match of the Group Stage in 2026 FIFA World Cup at Seattle Stadium.

The US sits atop Group D with 6 points and have secured a spot in the knockout stages. Australia remains on three points.

Just like in their opener, the Americans started off red hot. In the 10th minute, Folarin Balogun squared the ball across the 6-yard box and forced an own goal off the foot of Cameron Burgess. The US controlled most of the first half and in the 44th minute won a free kick just outside the box. On the set piece, Antonee Robinson passed the ball up to Sergino Dest, who rifled a shot goalwards. The ball was deflected up in the air and Alex Freeman was first to it. The 21-year-old headed the ball into the back of the net. He was originally ruled offside, but after a VAR review it was determined the goal was good. The US led 2-0 at halftime. In the second half, Australia settled into the match and created more opportunities. However, the American defense held strong and held out for the 2-0 victory.

“It was a fantastic game again,” USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino said. “It was a very good first half. I think we dominated the game against a very tough team.”

This was the first clean sheet for the US since September 2025. The Americans controlled 62% of possession on the afternoon.

Another fast start set the foundation for the U.S. victory, with the early breakthrough proving crucial.

“It set the tone,” Balogun said after the match. “We wanted to start fast again and we were able to do that. It always makes the game easier, so I am very happy.”

The atmosphere in Seattle was electric. More than 70,000 fans packed the stadium, roaring the U.S. on from the opening whistle and creating a true home-field advantage. After the final whistle, the players celebrated with supporters by singing “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” a fitting end to a memorable afternoon.

The connection between the team and the crowd was not lost on head coach Mauricio Pochettino. The Argentine admitted he was moved by the scene after the match.

“Even though I am not American, after the game I was emotional because of what I had seen,” Pochettino said. “I think it was an amazing and perfect connection between the energy from the stands and the team. We feel very proud because connecting with the people is what we wanted. If we want to achieve great things, we need the support of our fans.”

The United States have booked their tickets to the knockout stages and can go to bed with the top place in the group secured. If Paraguay beats Turkiye or the match ends in a draw, the US will have the top place locked up.

The US will wrap up the group stage against Turkiye on Thursday in Los Angeles.