The United States and Australia enter today's Group D clash knowing a victory would put either side in a commanding position to reach the knockout stage, making this one of the most important matches on the second round of the World Cup schedule.
As bettors weigh their World Cup picks ahead of kickoff, the goal scorer market features value on both sides. The Americans exploded for four goals against Paraguay in their opener, while Australia produced an impressive 2-0 victory over Turkey to keep pace atop the group.
With attacking talent on both sides and plenty at stake, I break down my favorite USA vs. Australia goal scorer picks for Friday, June 19, as a complement to our USA vs. Australia predictions.
USA vs Australia goal scorer picks
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USA goal scorer pick
Folarin Balogun (+170 at Kalshi)
If you're looking for the most likely scorer in Friday's matchup, start with Folarin Balogun. He may benefit if Christian Pulisic isn't included in the USA vs. Australia starting lineups.
The Monaco striker remains the focal point of the American attack and should once again benefit from the creativity surrounding him. The United States generated four goals against Paraguay and consistently found dangerous spaces through its pace, movement, and direct attacking play.
Australia is expected to defend deeper than Paraguay, but that could simply mean more touches inside the penalty area for Balogun. The Americans should enjoy significant possession, and their No. 9 remains the player most likely to finish off the chances they create.
Balogun also carries penalty-taking upside — as one of Team USA's featured set-piece takers, making him an attractive option in the goal scorer market.
Australia goal scorer pick
Mohamed Toure (+456 at Kalshi)
If Australia is going to trouble the Americans, Mohamed Toure is the player most likely to be involved.
The Socceroos are unlikely to dominate possession, meaning much of their attacking success will depend on quick transitions and taking advantage of limited opportunities. Toure's pace and direct running make him a natural fit for that game script.
The United States pushed numbers forward throughout its opener against Paraguay, and Australia could find similar opportunities to attack space behind the American back line. If that happens, Toure is the player most likely to capitalize.
At 18 cents on Kalshi, you're getting an implied probability that may underrate his role as Australia's primary goal threat in what should be a competitive Group D battle.
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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