US to host Australia in Commerce City for World Cup prep friendly

The United States men's national team will face Australia on Tuesday night at DICK'S Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colorado, in the second friendly of the international window as both sides finalize preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match offers the hosts a chance to build on a 1-1 draw with Ecuador and gives Australia another test after their 1-0 victory over Canada last weekend.

The U.S. drew with Ecuador in Austin after conceding to Enner Valencia in the 24th minute and equalizing through Folarin Balogun in the 71st. The Americans dominated possession, holding roughly two thirds of the ball and registering five shots on target, and coach Mauricio Pochettino again employed a three-at-the-back system after switching from a back four. The tactical change yielded improved attacking balance against a South American side that finished second in CONMEBOL qualifying, and it appears likely Pochettino will continue with a three-central-defender setup in Colorado.

Selection for the U.S. is expected to reflect that system. New York City FC goalkeeper Matt Freese has emerged as the de facto No. 1 in 2025 and is likely to start. The back three could include Tim Ream,...