News Focus
- Christian Pulisic misses the match through injury or unavailability.
- Mauricio Pochettino switches to a two-striker system for the clash.
- Ricardo Pepi and Folarin Balogun start together up front.
- Pepi will drop deep to link play, while Balogun stretches the defence.
- Midfield balance comes from Tillman, Adams and McKennie.
Head coach Mauricio Pochettino has made a key change to his starting line-up for the World Cup qualifier against Australia. He has paired Ricardo Pepi with Folarin Balogun in a two-man attack. This decision comes because Christian Pulisic is unavailable for selection.
Pepi will play as the target man. He likes to move into midfield to help keep the ball. He also works hard to press opponents high up the pitch. Balogun offers a different threat with his pace. He will run in behind the Australian defence. This movement stops the opponents from forming a tight defensive block.
In the centre of the pitch, Pochettino has selected Malik Tillman, Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie. This combination gives the team balance. Out wide, Sergiño Dest and Antonee Robinson will provide width and attacking support from the full-back positions.