World Cup 2026: USA to meet Australia in Seattle; Mexico and Canada get key wins

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Two of the World Cup's hosts returned to the pitch on Thursday and picked up key wins in the group stage. The second round of the group stage is officially underway as teams begin to clinch spots into the knockout bracket. One of those teams is the United States, which plays [...]

By Jason Griffith for PeeDeeWire

WBTW News13 reports that COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Two of the World Cup's hosts returned to the pitch on Thursday and picked up key wins in the group stage.

The second round of the group stage is officially underway as teams begin to clinch spots into the knockout bracket.

One of those teams is the United States, which plays a crucial match in Seattle on Friday to continue its World Cup journey.

Here is what happened on the eighth day of the World Cup and a preview of what to watch on the ninth day.

Co-hosts Mexico clinched first place in Group A after a 1-0 win in Guadalajara over South Korea.

Luis Romo's early second half goal coupled with clutch saves from goalkeeper Raul Rangel keep EL Tri perfect in the tournament and lock their place in the bracket.