Is the USA going all the way? It took a big step forward on Friday by winning Group D.
The Americans became the second team to clinch their group at the 2026 World Cup. Mexico won Group A on Thursday night, and the USA sealed Group D with its win over Australia and Türkiye’s surprising loss to Paraguay.
Elsewhere, two potential contenders got their first wins of the tournament in Group C.
Here is everything you might have missed on Day 9 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup:
Goal Of The Day
After Lucas Paquetá fought to get the ball back at midfield, he dished it to VinÃcius Júnior, who dashed toward goal before he found a sprinting Matheus Cunha at the top of the box. Once Cunha received the ball, he took one dribble toward goal before letting off a left-footed shot with so much power, he knocked himself to the ground in the process.
Assist Of The Day
While Balogun did not officially get credited for an assist for Australia’s own goal that provided the opening score for the United States, he should get credited for doing all the work leading up to the goal. Balogun charged down the left flank at full speed and cut inside the box, and his ensuing cross across the middle forced the own goal as the ball bounced off Cameron Burgess and into the back of the net.
Save Of The Day
The United States earned their first clean sheet of the World Cup and Alex Freeman displayed great defense to likely prevent an Australian goal. The fullback slid in perfectly at the near post to prevent Nishan Velupillay from connecting with Matthew Leckie’s low cross and keeping the Stars and Stripes in the lead.
Moment Of The Day
The U.S. secured its spot in the round of 32 with a 2-0 World Cup win over Australia on Friday, but the real magic happened after the final whistle. Over 65,000 fans at Seattle Stadium began to serenade the victorious Americans, breaking into a massive sing-along of “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver.
