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Tillman Shines as US Beats Australia 2-0

6/30/2026

26 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Tillman Leads

Tim Ream praised Malik Tillman after the United States defeated Australia 2-0 in Seattle.
Tillman logged 13 recoveries, five chances created and an assist on Balogun’s first Paraguay goal, leading the USMNT in recoveries.
Coach Gregg Pochettino shifted Tillman to a box-to-box No. 8 beside Weston McKennie and Tyler Adams, a role Tillman says suits him.

Summary

USA Favored Win

The United States is a -750 favorite against Bosnia-Herzegovina, with Opta giving it a 96% win probability.
A victory would be the U.S.’s first knockout win since 2002 and its seventh CONCACAF nation achievement.
Captain Tim Ream said he feels little personal pressure, saying expectations mainly come from the players.
Defenders Auston Trusty and Mark McKenzie left the Irvine camp with ankle and foot treatment.

History

Historical Context

Bruce Arena’s United States beat Mexico 2-0 in the 2002 World Cup round of 16, delivering the team’s first ever knockout-stage victory and advancing to a quarter-final loss to Germany. The win, highlighted by Landon Donovan’s goal, broke a century-long drought and sparked a decade of deeper World Cup runs and the rise of America’s “golden generation.”

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Tillman Leads

Tim Ream praised Malik Tillman after the United States defeated Australia 2-0 in Seattle.
Tillman logged 13 recoveries, five chances created and an assist on Balogun’s first Paraguay goal, leading the USMNT in recoveries.
Coach Gregg Pochettino shifted Tillman to a box-to-box No. 8 beside Weston McKennie and Tyler Adams, a role Tillman says suits him.

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