USA v Australia LIVE: Christian Pulisic injury update ahead of crunch World Cup 2026 clash

It was a strong start for the USA as well – Lawrence Ostlere was in Los Angeles to watch the co-hosts dismantle Paraguay.

When Nestory Irankunda made a beeline for the corner flag after putting Australia in front against Turkey last Saturday, everyone knew who he was paying tribute to. Twenty years on, Australia are still trying to replicate the magic of Tim Cahill guiding them towards the last-16 in Germany.

The sight of Cahill bobbing and weaving around the flag after the Socceroos’ first World Cup goal against Japan in 2006 remains a defining image in their history, so Irankunda thought it right to pay tribute to his “biggest inspiration” after the moment of his nascent career to date.

“I look up to him and I want to be like him one day,” the Watford winger said afterwards, instantly winning the hearts of many casual fans back home. But if they appear overly committed towards nods to the past, this was equally a breakout party for a team that are determined to far exceed low external expectations at World Cup 2026 – and simultaneously become central to a depressingly familiar political discourse.

Christian Pulisic was taken off at half-time of USA’s 4-1 win against Paraguay with a knock but is set to be fit, according to Pochettino, despite training on his own this week.

Australia boss Tony Popovic is set to name an unchanged side who beat Turkey in their opener, with Patrick Beach likely to remain in goal after his brilliant performance last time out.

Viewers in the UK can watch the match free-to-air on BBC1 with coverage starting at 7:30pm BST. It can also be live-streamed on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website.

Another major day of World Cup action is upon us, with the United States back amongst things after an opening performance to be proud of. It’s Australia in Seattle today for Mauricio Pochettino’s side – both are looking to back up big wins in their first fixtures and book a spot in the knockout rounds.

Kick off is at 8pm BST/12pm Pacific. Let’s get going!