USA rally from behind as Haji Wright stars with a late brace
The United States fought back from a goal down to beat Australia 2-1 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Colorado, with Haji Wright delivering a timely warning to World Cup rivals. The result gave the hosts a much-needed confidence boost on the eve of bigger tests, while marking Tony Popovic’s first loss as Socceroos boss.
Early setback as Pulisic limps off
USA captain Christian Pulisic had been back in the starting XI after a slight ankle issue kept him on the bench against Ecuador, but his afternoon began to unravel in the 27th minute. A tough sequence of challenges from the physical Socceroos saw Pulisic suffer a lower-leg complaint, forcing Mauricio Pochettino to withdraw his talisman and reshuffle his attack. Diego Luna replaced him and immediately added impetus in the attacking third.
Australia take the lead through Bos
Australia’s left-back Jordy Bos, fresh from recent Eredivisie recognition, provided the shock element in the 19th minute. A throw-in near the USA box was cleared poorly, allowing Bos to surge forward and fire a half-volley into the far corner past Matt Freese. It was the visitors’ sole significant moment of initiative in an opening half dominated by the Americans, who controlled possession and built patient attacking moves under the watchful eye of Pochettino.
USA respond with a swift equaliser
The home side did not take long to respond. Luna’s clever positioning and a well-timed through-ball released Wright, who found space in the penalty area and steered the ball into the top corner. The goal gave the Americans renewed belief as they pressed high and probed Australia’s defense, with Wright and Cristian Roldan providing the distribution in central areas and testing Mat Ryan on multiple occasions.
Second-half momentum and Wright’s decisive finish
As the second half began, the Socceroos attempted to reassert themselves, with Bos again a dangerous outlet on the left. A rare Australian free kick and a late push nearly tipped the balance, but the key moment arrived midway through the second period. After a swift USA counter, Wright cut inside and curled a precise finish beyond Ryan to give the hosts a 2-1 lead. The goal highlighted his versatility in the box and his ability to convert chances created by the midfield and wide players.
Substitutions and tactical adjustments
Popovic rotated his squad to keep legs fresh, bringing on Mo Toure and Nestory Irankundo to bolster the attack. The changes did little to dampen Wright’s ambition, while Bos continued to push down the flanks, looking to unlock opportunities from wide areas. The USA, meanwhile, remained compact at the back and focused on quick transitions, with goalkeeper Matt Freese making a crucial save late in the game to preserve the lead.
What this result means for the World Cup picture
For both teams, the match served as an important tune-up ahead of next year’s World Cup. The USA showed improving cohesion and depth beyond Pulisic, which is essential for Mauricio Pochettino’s evolving squad as it seeks to contend with the world’s best. Australia’s performance, while competitive, will sting as they relinquish a lead at a critical moment and must reflect on defensive transitions when facing top sides in future fixtures.
Key players to watch
Haji Wright’s brace underscored his growing influence in the national team setup and his ability to rise to the occasion in front of goal. Diego Luna’s involvement in the build-up and Cristian Roldan’s distribution were pivotal in unlocking a stubborn Australia defense, while Jordy Bos’ early strike reminded the Socceroos of his threat from wide positions.
As the World Cup cycle accelerates, both sides will analyze positives from this friendly to sharpen plans. The United States will hope Pulisic’s injury is not long-term while Wright’s form gives Pochettino a reliable attacking option as the squad coalesces around a core of exciting young talents.
