Stars and Stripes sparkle as USA see off Australia to advance to World Cup knockouts

The Stars and Stripes are living up to the hype. In a largely scrappy match that produced very few clear-cut chances for either side, the World Cup co-hosts applied the pressure and got just reward.

A dominant start for USMNT was aided by a passive Australian attack. Forward Folarin Balogun flew onto Antonee Robinson's pass down the left and a fizzing cross saw Cameron Burgess bundle the ball into his own net in the 11th minute.

The Socceroos continued to soak up the pressure while providing little on attack. It looked as though they would make it to the break with no further damage, but luck was not on their side this day. A powerful shot from Sergino Dest deflected high into the sky and Alex Freeman jumped highest to nod the ball past flying Australia gloveman Patrick Beach to double their advantage.

In the second stanza, US star Balogun had his shot blocked by tireless defender Alesandro Circati. That seemed to stir up the underdogs, who began to fight back. Australia enjoyed a purple patch, but attackers Cristian Volpato and  Connor Metcalfe only managed to force one save out of USA goalkeeper Matthew Freese.

But the Socceroos never gave up. They toiled deep into the match and enjoyed long periods with the ball in the dying embers. The US scrambled in defence, only just managing to clear the ball from a couple of wild goalmouth scrambles.

There was a heartwarming moment in extra time when referee Felix Zwayer went down with cramp and an Australian player was on hand to treat his calf.

But it only delayed the result as USMNT held on to claim their first back-to-back victories at a FIFA World Cup and confirm their place in the next stage.