Tony Popovic's unbeaten start in charge of Australia finally ended at the hands of the United States on Tuesday but the Socceroos boss saw enough in the Denver defeat to give him hope for the World Cup next year.

Coming into the clash against the World Cup co-hosts, Australia were riding a seven-match winning streak - undefeated in their last 12 games and 11 since Popovic took over from Graham Arnold over a year ago.

Another win beckoned at Dick's Sporting Goods Park when wingback Jordan Bos netted early but the visitors were overhauled 2-1 by the world number 16 Americans after a brace from striker Haji Wright.

"I think we showed tonight that we can definitely be competitive at the World Cup," Popovic told reporters.

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