Australia are refusing to get distracted by criticism and outside opinions as they prepare for a key Group D showdown against the United States in Seattle on Friday.

Both teams head into the match full of confidence after winning their opening games at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Socceroos impressed with a 2-0 victory over Turkey, while the United States began their campaign with a win over Paraguay.

Despite Australia's strong start, some American commentators have dismissed the Socceroos as a serious threat to the co-hosts. Former U.S. defender Alexi Lalas was among those who questioned Australia's credentials before the tournament, describing them as "an average team by any measure" in his rankings of the 48 participating nations.

However, Australia assistant coach Hayden Foxe insists there is no need to shield players from such comments.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, the former Socceroos defender said modern footballers are fully aware of what is being said in the media and on social platforms.

"We can't baby them. They're their own selves, we want them to be their own selves," Foxe said.

"Social media's out there, they're aware of media and the comments and what's being said.

"But we're concentrated on us. They're old enough and mature enough to understand what gets said and what doesn't get said."

Australia's confidence has been boosted by an impressive performance against Turkey in their opening fixture.

Tony Popovic's side produced one of their most complete displays in recent years, securing a 2-0 victory thanks to goals from exciting young attacker Nestory Irankunda and midfielder Connor Metcalfe.

The result provided the perfect start to Australia's campaign and immediately strengthened belief within the squad ahead of their meeting with the Americans.

Irankunda admitted that comments made before the match by Turkey captain Hakan Calhanoglu had motivated some members of the Australian squad.

The Turkish playmaker suggested that his side possessed more talent than the Socceroos, remarks that were noted inside the Australian camp.

"It did piss off a few boys, but at the end of the day, these guys can talk all the s**t ... we don't really care," Irankunda told reporters.

Rather than responding with words, Australia answered on the pitch with a disciplined and effective display that earned all three points.

Metcalfe, one of the goalscorers against Turkey, said the team will carry that momentum into Friday's clash.

According to the midfielder, the Socceroos head into the match against the United States full of confidence after their successful start.

"We'll go into the U.S. match full of energy, full of confidence," Metcalfe said.

Despite the positive mood surrounding the team, Foxe has warned against becoming carried away after a single victory.

The assistant coach pointed to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar as an example of why maintaining focus is so important.

Saudi Arabia famously stunned eventual champions Argentina in one of the tournament's biggest upsets but ultimately failed to progress beyond the group stage.

For Foxe, the lesson is clear: a memorable win means little if it is not followed up with continued performances.

"Fantastic win against Turkey. Memorable, great. Enjoy that moment," he said.

"Now that's gone. Now we move on to the U.S."

Australia will now turn their full attention to Friday's encounter in Seattle, knowing that another positive result could significantly strengthen their position in Group D.

With both teams coming off opening victories, the clash promises to be one of the standout matches of the group stage as the race for a place in the knockout rounds begins to take shape.