The USMNT will face a tough test in their Group D match against Australia in the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Socceroos' 2-0 victory over Turkey has flipped expectations, and the USMNT must be prepared for a challenging match. Mauricio Pochettino's side will need to be at their best to overcome the unpredictable Australians. The Socceroos' conservative play and deep starting position of left-back Jordan Bos will be key factors in the match. Bos is in the conversation as the best left-back in the Dutch Eredivisie, and his pace and jinking ability will be a threat to the USMNT. Sergiño Dest, the USMNT's right-wing-back, will be well-placed to curb Bos's threat, having played against him in the Eredivisie. The USMNT will need to be prepared for both the Socceroos' counterattacks and their own set pieces. In the friendly between the two teams in Colorado, the USMNT dominated possession but struggled to create clear-cut chances. The Socceroos' forward Nestory Irankunda came close to equalizing in the 89th minute, and the USMNT will need to be more clinical in their finishing. The match will be a test of the USMNT's ability to overcome a tough opponent and secure a crucial win in the group stage.