Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020

Australia vs United States has brought two major selection calls from Tony Popovic, with Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe dropped to the bench for the Socceroos’ 2026 FIFA World Cup Group D clash.

Irankunda and Metcalfe both scored in Australia’s 2-0 win over Turkey, but Popovic has turned to Mathew Leckie and Nishan Velupillay in attack for the blockbuster match. The fixture could decide who finishes top of Group D, while United States star Christian Pulisic has been left out after failing to recover from a left calf injury.

For more build-up to the Group D showdown, read USMNT vs Australia: Christian Pulisic Fitness Adds Edge To World Cup Clash, while official tournament details are available through the FIFA World Cup 2026 page.

Popovic Turns To Experience

Leckie comes into the side for his first appearance at a fourth World Cup, giving Australia experience in a match carrying major group-stage stakes.

Velupillay also starts in attack, with Irankunda and Metcalfe held back as possible impact players. Irankunda was electric against Turkey and scored a brilliant opener, while Metcalfe added a fine second-half goal.

Popovic has otherwise kept faith with the side that beat Turkey, sticking with Patrick Beach in goal and the same defensive and midfield structure.

Harry Souttar will captain Australia again, with Jacob Italiano, Alessandro Circati, Cameron Burgess and Jordan Bos forming the defensive line around him.

Pulisic Misses Out For United States

Mauricio Pochettino will be without Pulisic after the United States forward was unable to prove his fitness.

The United States entered the match with uncertainty around its leading attacker, and his absence changes the shape of a game already loaded with pressure. Australia’s bench now carries serious pace and scoring threat if the match opens up late.

Australia’s starting XI is Patrick Beach; Jacob Italiano, Alessandro Circati, Harry Souttar, Cameron Burgess, Jordan Bos; Aiden O'Neill, Paul Okon-Engstler; Nishan Velupillay, Mathew Leckie, Mohamed Toure.