USA continue their World Cup 2026 build-up with a friendly clash against Australia at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Colorado on October 15. The USA impressed in their 1-1 draw with Ecuador last weekend, dominating possession and creating the better chances against a strong South American side. Mauricio Pochettino’s men displayed control in midfield and width in attack. The energy and cohesion seen in that game mark a clear improvement from their disjointed performances in the CONCACAF Nations League.
Meanwhile, Australia already have one North American win under their belt this month after edging Canada 1-0. They’ll be aiming to spoil another host nation’s party. Australia arrive full of confidence under Tony Popovic, who has turned the Socceroos into one of the most consistent international sides in world football. The visitors are unbeaten in 11 matches and have won their last seven. Popovic’s men have shown tactical maturity and are able to defend deep when needed and spring forward with pace in transition.
| Bets | Moneyline | Moneyline |
| Full Time Result | USA: -140, Australia: +333 | Draw: +280 |
| Draw No Bet | USA: -325 | Australia: +220 |
| Total Goals | Over 2.5: -120 | Under 2.5: -115 |
| USA to Win and Both Teams to Score | Yes: +250 | No: +185 |
| Australia to Win and Both Teams to Score | Yes: +675 | No: +600 |
(Odds via BetMGM)
Pochettino’s willingness to experiment bodes well for the Americans’ World Cup preparations. The US manager has tested new combinations and given younger players valuable minutes. The USMNT have also tightened up defensively and the upcoming contest will offer another test of how well Pochettino’s system works against a physically disciplined opponent like Australia.
Meanwhile, the Aussies will use this fixture as an opportunity to acclimatize to North American conditions after securing their place at the 2026 World Cup. Popovic, who remains unbeaten since taking over from Graham Arnold, has instilled a strong mentality and structure in his team. His side thrives on disciplined defending and clinical finishing, a combination that has made them a tough nut to crack.
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Given the recent form of both teams, Under 2.5 Goals looks like a value play. The USA have seen three of their last four games finish with two or fewer goals. Meanwhile, Australia have adopted a pragmatic approach under Tony Popovic, with four of their last six matches going under this line. Both sides have shown compact defending which suggests this friendly could be a low-scoring affair with limited clear-cut chances.
Folarin Balogun anytime scorer offers good value after his sharp display against Ecuador, where he led the line effectively and was rewarded with a goal in the 71st minute. The Monaco forward looks to have secured his starting spot under Pochettino. With confidence high and the U.S. expected to control possession again, Balogun’s intelligent movement and finishing instincts make him a strong candidate to find the net for a second straight game.
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With both teams in good form and plenty of energy expected in midfield, this matchup promises to be competitive and tactical. The USA will look to use their home advantage and possession play to dictate the game. Meanwhile, Australia will rely on their defensive solidity and counter-attacking game. It will be a true test for both sides as they fine-tune preparations ahead of World Cup 2026.
Final Prediction: USA 1-1 Australia
Bettors can explore a variety of betting options on BetMGM, including full-time results, over/under goals, and player props for this clash.
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