USMNT lineup vs Australia — Who will Mauricio Pochettino choose in XI vs Socceroos?

In the latest Big 12 football power rankings, Texas Tech and BYU stand out as the only unbeaten teams, showcasing their impressive performances. Texas Tech's transformation from a passing to a rushing powerhouse, led by Cameron Dickey's remarkable 263 rushing yards, highlights their strength. Meanwhile, Iowa State's recent struggles following Colorado's upset serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of college football. This ranking not only reflects team standings but also sets the stage for exciting matchups ahead, making it a crucial moment in the season.

Folarin Balogun is emerging as the leading candidate for the striker position on the U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT) as they prepare for upcoming friendlies ahead of next summer's major tournament. With only five matches left before coach Mauricio Pochettino finalizes his roster, Balogun's strong performance is crucial for the team's success and could significantly impact their chances in the competition.

Christian Pulisic might be ready to play in the upcoming friendly match between the United States and Australia, as he completed a full training session. However, Antonee Robinson has been ruled out due to discomfort in his knee, which has undergone surgery. Coach Mauricio Pochettino expressed hope that Pulisic will be available for the game, highlighting the importance of having key players fit for international fixtures.

Colorado football has made a significant leap in ESPN's Football Power Index, climbing six spots after their impressive upset victory over Iowa State in Week 7. This surge not only highlights the team's growing strength but also boosts their visibility and prospects for the remainder of the season, making fans optimistic about their chances.

In a recent discussion, Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros analyzed Mauricio Pochettino's Instagram post about 'culture,' which seemed directed at the USMNT. They also spoke with Jess Fishlock, a midfielder for Seattle Reign and Wales, who reflected on her impressive career and shared insights about the upcoming NWSL playoffs and her marriage to Tziarra King. Additionally, the conversation touched on Sir Jim Ratcliffe's remarks regarding Manchester United's controversial cost-cutting strategies. This blend of topics highlights the evolving landscape of soccer and the personal journeys of players.

England head coach Shaun Wane has clarified that leaving Jake Connor, the 2025 Man of Steel winner, out of the Ashes squad was an easy decision for him. Wane expressed confusion over the attention given to Connor's omission, especially as the team prepares for the first Test against Australia at Wembley on October 25. This decision highlights the competitive nature of team selection and the varying opinions on player performance and potential.

Como's upcoming match against AC Milan in Australia highlights the importance of international games for Serie A's survival. With a significant financial gap between Serie A and the Premier League, Como emphasizes that playing abroad is not just a game, but a crucial step to ensure the league's competitiveness and financial health. This match could attract global attention and support, which is vital for the future of Italian football.

Como's upcoming match against AC Milan in Australia highlights the club's commitment to bridging the financial gap between Serie A and the Premier League. This game is seen as an essential step for survival in a competitive landscape, showcasing the importance of international exposure for Italian football. By playing abroad, Como aims to attract attention and resources that could help elevate the league's status.

Australia is taking significant steps to combat the threat of illegal offshore wagering, especially with the upcoming Women's Asian Cup. This week, sports integrity experts are gathering to enhance collaboration against organized crime linked to betting. With major international sporting events on the horizon, it's crucial to ensure fair play and protect the integrity of sports, making this initiative timely and important.

Ben Stokes and Mark Wood are on track to be fully fit and ready for the upcoming Ashes series, which is great news for England fans. Their return comes at a crucial time, especially as Australia faces uncertainty with Pat Cummins' fitness. This development not only boosts England's chances but also adds excitement to the rivalry, as both players are eager to face the Australian crowd.

Como has issued an official statement addressing the decision to hold their Serie A match against Milan in Perth, Australia. They emphasized that this move, while controversial, is made for the greater good, suggesting that it may benefit fans and the sport's growth in the region. This decision highlights the ongoing discussions about the globalization of football and how clubs are adapting to reach wider audiences.

Marc Marquez, the 2025 MotoGP world champion, has undergone shoulder surgery following a crash at the Indonesian Grand Prix. This unfortunate event means he will miss upcoming races in Australia and Malaysia, which is a significant setback for both him and his team. Fans and fellow competitors will be watching closely as he recovers, hoping for a swift return to the track.

Before the NLCS Game 1, Brewers manager Pat Murphy shared a funny story about Mookie Betts, highlighting the superstar's impact even on the Brewers' clubhouse attendants. This light-hearted moment not only showcases the camaraderie in baseball but also emphasizes the respect and admiration players have for each other, making the upcoming game even more exciting for fans.

Syracuse coach Fran Brown recently faced a challenging moment when he rebuffed a reporter's question that he deemed disrespectful regarding his future with the team. This incident highlights the pressures coaches face in the public eye and raises questions about media interactions in sports. It matters because it reflects the ongoing scrutiny coaches endure and the importance of maintaining professionalism in high-stakes environments.

The Fort Valley State Blue Machine Marching Band has been reinstated following a hazing investigation, allowing them to resume regular activities. This is significant as it means the band can participate in upcoming events like the Good Trouble Classic against Savannah State and the Fountain City Classic. The university's decision reflects a commitment to student engagement and the importance of these events in fostering school spirit and community involvement.

In an exciting moment during the ALCS, Daulton Varsho of the Toronto Blue Jays made a spectacular catch to halt a rally by the Seattle Mariners, keeping the game tied at three. This play not only showcased Varsho's athleticism but also highlighted the intensity of the playoff atmosphere, as the Blue Jays aim to maintain their lead in the series. Such moments are crucial in postseason baseball, where every play can shift the momentum.

The Jacksonville Jaguars have made two roster changes at the tight end position ahead of their Week 7 matchup against the LA Rams in London. These moves are significant as they reflect the team's strategy and preparation for the upcoming game, which could impact their performance.

The upcoming UFC 322 event at Madison Square Garden has taken a hit as bantamweight fighter Serhiy Sidey is out of his matchup against Malcolm Wellmaker. This news is disappointing for fans who were looking forward to an exciting fight, highlighting the unpredictable nature of sports and the challenges athletes face leading up to events.