The U.S. men’s national team is set to face Australia on Friday after its dominating opening-match win over Paraguay.

The 2026 World Cup has gained massive traction with several fans flying to the States to witness their respective squads in action. Companies and brands are fully immersed in the advertising of the FIFA tournament with promotions taking place throughout the country.

American Airlines gifted passengers free USMNT jerseys, soccer balls and World Cup care packages on a flight to Seattle ahead of Friday’s World Cup match. The high-stakes contest will take place at Lumen Field, home of the Seahawks.

American Airlines put USMNT jerseys, soccer balls, and World Cup care packages in each seat for every passenger on a Seattle flight. pic.twitter.com/QRH0sW8Vp5

— Front Office Sports (@FOS) June 18, 2026

The U.S. has garnered much attention after such a strong start to the 2026 World Cup. But they’ll have to prove themselves against 23rd-ranked Australia.

The Americans are No. 15 in the world, trailing No. 13 Mexico and No. 14 Croatia.

Will Christian Pulisic play vs Australia?

That’s the million-dollar question.

The American star sustained a calf injury in training last week and aggravated it during the World Cup opening victory over Paraguay.

Pulisic continued to train separately only 24 hours before the match. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino will meet with medical staff Thursday night and Friday morning to decide on Pulisic’s availability.

The 27-year-old is doing everything he can to get back on the pitch, per Pochettino. If Pulisic doesn’t play against Australia, he will be ready to compete against Türkiye on June 23.

USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino said that he will meet with the medical staff tonight and tomorrow morning they will make a decision on Christian Pulisic. He said that CP is doing everything he can to get back on the pitch, and noted that if he's not available tomorrow, he…

— Michael J. Duarte (@michaeljduarte) June 18, 2026

When does the USA vs Australia match start?

The USMNT takes the pitch at 12 p.m. PT Friday. The squad is considered the favorite to win the match after a dominant 4-1 win over Paraguay to open tournament play.

Australia is coming off an upset, when it defeated Türkiye in a stunning 2-0 victory. Fans can watch the game on Fox and Telemundo as well as stream the game on YouTube with a subscription.