New Delhi, June 20 -- The United States proved they can succeed without Christian Pulisic, defeating Australia 2-0 on Friday to secure a place in the World Cup round of 32. However, head coach Mauricio Pochettino said he hopes his star player will be fit to return for the team's next match.

Pulisic was unavailable for the Group D encounter in Seattle after suffering a calf injury during the Americans' opening victory over Paraguay, leaving the co-hosts without their key attacking threat.

Despite his absence, the US delivered a strong performance. They took the lead in the 11th minute when Australia's Cameron Burgess scored an own goal. Alex Freeman then doubled the advantage just before halftime, heading home after a VAR review overturn...