The threats Australia must neutralise in World Cup’s ‘Battle of Seattle’ against USA

I n the so-called “Battle of Seattle”, the Socceroos face a range of threats against the USA on Friday (Saturday AEST): physical, technical and tactical. A draw will almost certainly secure a place in the round of 32 for the Socceroos and, after their heroics against Turkey, Australia can rightfully feel this is a game they can win. To do so, they will need to neutralise the most dangerous components of the USA menace. Christian Pulisic The focal point of the USA attack, and the face of the team across many of the advertisements screening during the World Cup , Pulisic has become a consistent performer for AC Milan since the end of his up-and-down stint Chelsea in 2023. The 27-year-old operates in an inverted left wing role, leaving him the scope to cut inside when the team has possession or drive wide on counter-attacks. Both strategies were evident in his electric first half display against Paraguay. Pulisic suffered a knock in that game and came off at half-time, but is due to play against Australia . He will pose a challenge for Alessandro Circati on the right-side of the Socceroos’ three central defenders. The young defender will not always be marking the American, but will be responsible for ensuring the right full-back – likely Jacob Italiano – and the right-sided central midfielder – probably Aiden O’Neill – are on Pulisic watch. Antonee Robinson The problem for Circati and the others on the Socceroos’ right flank is that they cannot worry about just Pulisic. …