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Day 9 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup delivers four compelling group stage matches, headlined by a heavyweight Group D clash between the USA and Australia in Seattle. The USMNT arrive red-hot after Folarin Balogun’s two-goal performance in a 4-1 opening win over Paraguay, while Australia also rolled in their opener, beating Türkiye 2-0. Later, five-time world champions Brazil look to right the ship against Haiti in Philadelphia after a disappointing 1-1 draw with Morocco to open the tournament. Scotland and Morocco also meet in Group C in Boston, and Türkiye and Paraguay close the night on the west coast in a Group D must-win for both teams. All four games will be broadcast on FOX or FS1 and streamed live on FOX One.
WC program for Friday 19 June
USA vs. Australia
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The American team attacks best from wide positions. Normally a full-back, Pochettino places Dest further up the box to take advantage of his dribbling and shooting ability. There are questions about Pulisic’s health heading into this game, and that would make Dest even more important to the team’s right-side attack.
Scotland v Morocco
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Morocco’s teenage central midfielder is one of the best young players in this tournament. French-born Bouaddi, 18, was given the challenging task of starting against Brazil on his World Cup debut and he passed the test with flying colors as Morocco controlled the midfield for stretches. Currently at Lille, Bouaddi is likely to find himself at one of the best teams in the world very soon. But while helping Morocco draw with Brazil was an acceptable result, Bouaddi will need to help deliver a win against Scotland.
Brazil vs. Haiti
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The 32-year-old centre-back is Brazil’s captain and leader. If the issues surrounding the team are anxiety and pressure, the captain must play a role that helps calm the team and get the players to focus on the task at hand. Against Haiti, Marquinhos may not be tasked with defending a lot, but his leadership responsibilities will be critical.
Turkey against Paraguay
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Paraguay’s captain and top centre-back is extremely skilled in South American football, winning everything with Palmeiras. As Paraguay look to force Türkiye into low percentage shots, Gomez will be key in keeping Paraguay’s defense fit and organised. Gomez is an emotional leader and the winner of this game between two frustrated teams could come down to who has the better leadership.
How to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup
All World Cup games are broadcast on FOX and FS1, with every game streamed live and on demand on FOX One.
