Haji Wright’s two goals propelled the United States to a 2-1 friendly win over Australia, marking the team’s first comeback victory under coach Mauricio Pochettino and strengthening the cases of Wright and Cristian Roldan for inclusion in the 2026 World Cup roster.
In a tightly contested friendly at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colorado, the USMNT overcame an early deficit to defeat Australia 2-1 on Tuesday night. Jordan Bos put the Socceroos ahead in the 19th minute with a slaloming run and finish, but Wright equalized in the 33rd minute and secured the win with a second goal in the 51st minute, both assisted by Roldan. The victory extended the U.S. unbeaten streak to three games and was the first time in nine matches that the team won after conceding first under Pochettino. The match served as a crucial evaluation ahead of the World Cup, with roster spots highly competitive.
Wright, who had not started for the U.S. since September 2024, seized his opportunity with clinical finishing. The Coventry City striker, currently leading the English Championship with eight goals, demonstrated his form by capitalizing on through balls from Roldan. His brace highlighted the depth of the U.S. striker pool, challenging Folarin Balogun for the starting role. Wright expressed gratitude for the freedom Pochettino and his club coach Frank Lampard have given him, allowing him to be ‘expressive and free-flowing’ on the field.
Cristian Roldan, returning to the national team after a two-year absence, delivered a standout performance with two assists. The Seattle Sounders midfielder rebounded from a slow start, where he was partly at fault for Australia’s opening goal, to control the midfield and create key chances. His quick thinking on a free kick set up Wright’s second goal, showcasing the versatility and intelligence that Pochettino values. Roldan, a member of the 2022 World Cup roster, emphasized his belief in making a ‘late push’ for selection, noting the coach’s role in boosting his confidence.
The victory was marred by an early injury to Christian Pulisic, who was forced off in the 28th minute after several heavy challenges. The AC Milan star’s absence limited the U.S. attack’s cohesion, but the team adapted well in his absence. Pochettino emphasized the importance of protecting players’ health with the World Cup approaching, though the injury raises concerns about integrating top players ahead of the tournament. Pulisic had also been limited by an ankle issue in the previous match against Ecuador, highlighting the physical toll of the busy schedule.
For Australia, the loss ended an 11-game unbeaten streak under coach Tony Popovic, dating back to his appointment last September. Bos’s opening goal was a bright spot, but defensive lapses cost them the match, with Wright exploiting gaps in the back line. The Socceroos, who had entered the match ranked 24th in the FIFA rankings, now risk slipping in the standings, which could affect their World Cup draw placement. Popovic’s team will look to rebound in November, with a rumored friendly against Argentina posing another tough test.
The performances of Wright and Roldan have intensified competition for World Cup spots, with Pochettino praising both players for seizing their opportunities. He noted that Wright’s display puts him ‘close’ to selection and described Roldan as an example of the ‘perfect player’ with confidence and competitiveness. With eight months until the tournament, every match is a crucial audition, and the coach is evaluating how players handle pressure and contribute to the team’s culture and values.
Broader implications include Pochettino’s focus on building a core group not only for 2026 but also for the 2030 cycle, emphasizing legacy and player development. The U.S. has shown improvement after a difficult start under the new coach, with this win boosting morale and tactical understanding. Pochettino expressed satisfaction with the result but desire for better individual performances, reflecting his competitive nature and high standards for the squad.
Looking ahead, the USMNT will reconvene in November for their final matches of the year, providing more opportunities for players to impress. Australia, meanwhile, faces a challenging schedule that could impact their World Cup preparations. Both teams will use these friendlies to fine-tune strategies and roster decisions, with the global showcase drawing nearer and every performance under scrutiny.