Testing the Blueprint: USMNT Faces Popovic’s Unbeaten Australia
The U.S. Men’s National Team returns to action in Colorado, looking to build on their improving form under Mauricio Pochettino. Let’s take a closer look at what could define this match.
1. Match Info
Fixture: U.S. Men’s National Team vs Australia (International Friendly)
Date & Time: 9:00 p.m. EST — October 14, 2025
Venue: Dick’s Sporting Goods Park — Commerce City, Colorado
Broadcast / Streaming: TNT / truTV / Max / Peacock / Univision
2. Head-to-Head / Historical Context
All-time record: USA – 1 Win / Australia – 1 Win / Draws – 1
Most recent meeting: June 5, 2010 — USA 3–1 Australia (Rustenburg, South Africa — pre-World Cup friendly)
That 2010 match saw goals from Edson Buddle (2) and Herculez Gomez for the U.S., while Tim Cahill scored for the Socceroos. This will be their first meeting in 15 years.
3. Form Guide / Recent Performances
USMNT
The U.S. Men’s National Team’s form has steadily improved since the second half of the September friendly against South Korea. The turning point came when Mauricio Pochettino switched to a back three, giving the team a stronger defensive structure and more confidence when building out of possession.
Before that change, the U.S. often circulated the ball passively, moving it sideways and backward without intent. Since adopting the back three, the team has looked more purposeful, progressing the ball through the lines, exploiting open space, and pressing higher with cohesion.
The friendly against Ecuador in Austin, Texas, was a meaningful test. Even though Ecuador was missing key players like Moisés Caicedo, Piero Hincapié, and Gonzalo Plata, they still played their usual high-intensity style. Early on, the U.S. struggled to escape Ecuador’s high press, but responded well with their own counter-pressing sequences.
The standout performer was Folarin Balogun, who not only scored the match’s lone goal but also led the line energetically pressing defenders, making runs to create space, and linking up play effectively.
For a full recap, check out: US vs Ecuador — Friendly Recap (Fox in the Box FC)
Australia
The Socceroos last played on October 10, 2025, defeating Canada 1–0 in Montreal. The winning goal came from Nestory Irankunda, who currently plays for Watford in the English Championship.
Under manager Tony Popovic, Australia have been resolute and structured, preferring a counter-attacking style while maintaining defensive compactness. Despite conceding most of the possession to Canada, a team also known for transition play, the Socceroos executed their tactical plan well.
Goalkeeper Paul Izzo was outstanding, making eight saves, while Canada registered 17 total shots. This result extended Australia’s unbeaten run to 11 matches under Popovic (7 wins, 4 draws).
Recent performances show a clear identity: strong defensive organization, quick transitional play, and an emphasis on discipline over possession.
4. Team News / Squad Updates
USMNT – Out
Sergiño Dest — Knee injury
Ricardo Pepi — Groin injury
Johnny Cardoso — Ankle injury
Tyler Adams — Away due to the birth of a child
USMNT – In Camp but Unavailable
Antonee Robinson — Ruled out of the match
Alex Zendejas — Ruled out of the match
Christian Pulisic - Game Time Decision
Australia – Out
Fran Karacic — Medical reasons (undisclosed)
5. Predictions
This match is likely to be cagey and tactical, with both sides prioritizing defensive organization early on.
Tony Popovic is expected to stay with his preferred 5-4-1 (which he has used in four consecutive matches). Australia will likely cede possession, look to absorb pressure, and then strike quickly in transition. Expect Paul Izzo to play a key role again, as Australia often rely on his shot-stopping and communication in a low defensive block.
For the U.S., Mauricio Pochettino will almost certainly persist with a 3-4-3 or 3-4-2-1 formation, depending on the game’s flow. The U.S. will look to stretch Australia with their wing-backs, particularly given that Popovic’s system tends to congest the central areas.
Look for Folarin Balogun to start again as the central striker, where his ability to hold up play and draw defenders will be crucial. The U.S. may grow frustrated trying to break down Australia’s compact shape, but if they can combine quickly in wide areas, the chances will come.
Given the likelihood of heavy substitutions in the second half (as this is a friendly), the U.S. depth should make the difference.
Prediction:
USA 2–1 Australia