World Cup: USA, Germany Target Perfect Records As Netherlands Close In On Knockout Stage

Co-hosts the United States and Germany will look to complete flawless group-stage campaigns on Thursday, while the Netherlands and Japan edge closer to securing places in the FIFA World Cup knockout rounds.

The United States have already guaranteed top spot in Group D after victories over Paraguay and Australia and will seek a third consecutive win when they face eliminated Turkey in Los Angeles.

With the knockout rounds looming, manager Mauricio Pochettino may choose to rotate his squad. Chris Richards, Antonee Robinson, Tyler Adams and Folarin Balogun are all one booking away from suspension and could be rested as a precaution.

Christian Pulisic, who has recovered from a calf injury that restricted him to just 45 minutes of action so far, insists the Americans remain determined to maintain momentum.

“Going into the knockout rounds with a win would feel much better,” Pulisic said.

“It’s a World Cup match and we want to give everything. We don’t necessarily need the result, but we always want to perform at our best.”

The United States are chasing their first World Cup quarter-final appearance since 2002, and their impressive start has fuelled optimism of a deep run on home soil.

Elsewhere in Group D, Australia and Paraguay meet in Santa Clara in a decisive battle for second place. Australia hold the advantage thanks to a superior goal difference, but a draw could potentially see both nations progress.

Germany, meanwhile, have already secured first place in Group E after victories over Curaçao and Ivory Coast, continuing their resurgence following disappointing exits in the previous two World Cups.

Coach Julian Nagelsmann has urged caution despite the strong start.

“We are pleased that our journey continues, but it is important to remain humble,” he said.

“We have won two matches and now we want to win a third. Then we will see who awaits us in the next round.”

Germany face an Ecuador side that must win to keep their hopes alive, while Ivory Coast are favourites to secure second place against tournament debutants Curaçao, who remain mathematically in contention after holding Ecuador to a goalless draw.