Anatomy of the Socceroos’ loss: How Australia were undone by the US

June 20, 2026 — 11:23am

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The Socceroos left a lot to be desired against the United States. Coach Tony Popovic has blamed the heat (and a contentious call) for a “sluggish” first half in Seattle.

Former Socceroos players have blamed Popovic’s decision not to start first match goal-scoring stars Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe. Tactics have been questioned and criticised, and praise afford to the United States’ approach under Mauricio Pochettino.

What can be gleaned from three of the match’s key moments?

Yes, this was recorded as a Cameron Burgess own goal, but the centre-back’s unfortunate final touch was almost an afterthought to what had come directly before it. Which is to say that the opening goal is less memorable for the actual goal than for being one of many examples showcasing how the US were able to draw their opponents out of position and capitalise.

This was especially the case in wide areas, where wing-backs Jacob Italiano and Jordy Bos were repeatedly dragged out, and Australia’s 5-4-1 shape was left distorted and exposed by the Americans’ pace.

In this instance, right wing-back........

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