Socceroos' undefeated streak ends with loss to US

The Socceroos have already qualified for the World Cup, with coach Tony Popovic hoping new players "surprise" him ahead of the finals.

Two football players from opposing teams run towards the ball during a match, with another player behind them.

Australia had won seven straight games and had been unbeaten since a September 2024 loss to Bahrain in a World Cup qualifier. Source: Getty / Omar Vega

The Socceroos' 11-game undefeated streak has come to an end with a 2-1 loss to the United States in an international friendly.

The Australians took the lead in the first half with a left-foot volley by Jordan Bos 19 minutes into the game in Denver, Colorado.

But the hosts struck back 14 minutes later with Haji Wright scoring an equaliser. Wright struck again in the 51st minute to put the US ahead.

The Socceroos were unbeaten in 11 games — including wins in their last seven games — following their hard-fought 1-0 win against Canada on the weekend.
While they will be disappointed with their defensive lapses, they will take plenty from a window that serves as crucial preparation for next year's FIFA World Cup.

The Socceroos have already qualified for the finals in North America, with coach Tony Popovic saying he wanted new players to "surprise" him.

"I've always said I've been open to anyone getting an opportunity for Australia. We're showing that with each camp," he said ahead of the friendly.

Popovic made five changes to the team that beat Canada 1-0, headlined by skipper Maty Ryan replacing Paul Izzo in goals.

Bos, Martin Boyle, Jason Geria and Nick D'Agostino started, with Nestory Irankunda, Mohamed Toure, Milos Degenek and Kye Rowles benched.

The Socceroos will return to action in the November window, before the World Cup draw on 5 December.


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