The United States and Australia both made a fast start to their World Cup campaigns, and now they meet in Seattle in a crucial Group D clash. Here is how each team can maintain momentum.
Australia's Superpowers
Back Nestory Irankunda
The 20-year-old was expected to be an impact substitute, but a player-of-the-match performance when starting against Turkey showed he has become one of the Socceroos' most important players. While still learning his wing-craft, his speed and determination without the ball are vital in an outfit happy to give opponents possession. His ability to exploit transition and direct opportunities, as seen for his opening goal against Turkey, can be a superpower.
Bring in the Reinforcements
Australia used five substitutions against Turkey, including three when it was still 1-0. With few standout players, Australia should spread the physical load with an eye on the knockout rounds. Health concerns for midfielder Aiden O'Neill and striker Mo Touré underscore the need for rotation. Touré's anticipation and pace make him the primary outlet when the defence is under pressure.
Play for the Draw
One point will almost certainly secure a place in the round of 32 ahead of the third match against Paraguay, widely seen as the weakest team in Group D. A draw would also leave Australia in the box seat to go through as group winners, needing only to eclipse the US result against Turkey. Securing top spot means staying in the San Francisco Bay Area for the round of 32 and playing a third-placed finisher.
United States' Keys
Midfield Rotations are Key
Paraguay's coach specifically complimented the starting trio of Weston McKennie, Tyler Adams and Malik Tillman, describing them as "floating" and part of a "pentagon" of play. Australia did not dictate the tempo against Turkey, conceding more than 70% possession and getting overrun in midfield. If the US are to do something with similar possession, they need their midfield to rotate effectively to pull Australia's back two lines out of shape.
Don't Get Carried Away
After the US's emphatic 4-1 win, fans and journalists speculated it may have been the team's best game at a men's World Cup. But players and coach Mauricio Pochettino haven't bought into it publicly. Pochettino stressed that the win was just the beginning. Given how Australia stunned Turkey, the US would do well to prepare for a very different type of game.
Score Early (If You Can)
Australia's calling card is their organised defence and intensity. Paraguay conceded just 10 goals in 18 Conmebol qualifiers, but their plan was dashed by a seventh-minute own goal. Getting on the scoreboard early will not only ignite the raucous Seattle environment, but force Australia to come out of their defensive shell.
