The United States men’s national soccer team advanced to the knockout stage of the World Cup without their star forward Christian Pulisic, who was absent due to a calf injury. The Americans secured a 2-0 victory over Australia, marking their second consecutive win in the expanded 48-team tournament.
Following the U.S. triumph, Paraguay’s 1-0 win over Turkey in Santa Clara, California, allowed the Americans to top Group D. Folarin Balogun, who scored twice in a previous match against Paraguay, remarked, “C.P. is a fantastic player — the quality and the leadership that he gives us. We didn’t have him today, but I think you saw we’re still capable to go out there and get a result and put up a performance.” As Group D winners, the U.S. will face a third-place group finisher in the round-of-32 on July 1 in Santa Clara.
Pulisic, an AC Milan player with 33 goals in 87 international appearances, was missed by some expectations, but the U.S. team’s evolution since hosting the World Cup in 1994 is evident. Back then, the Americans were among the best third-place teams, advancing only to lose to Brazil in the round of 16. This time, they’ve won consecutive World Cup games for the first time since 1930, scoring six goals, nearly setting a tournament record.
Alex Freeman, the youngest at 21 and son of former NFL wide receiver Antonio Freeman, scored the second goal in the 43rd minute. Freeman netted his first career World Cup goal with a header after Sergiño Dest’s deflected shot. “(He) is doing a fantastic job,” coach Mauricio Pochettino praised Freeman, noting his humility and willingness to learn.
The U.S. took an early lead in the 11th minute with Balogun’s play down the left sideline, which resulted in an own-goal by Australia defender Cameron Burgess. Balogun emphasized his desire to create scoring opportunities, stating, “It might not always be myself that scores, but if I can force an error that gives us the lead, then for me it’s like a goal as well.” The American dominance in the first half impressed Australia coach Tony Popovic.
“It did not surprise us because their quality is clear,” Popovic said. “Their power is clear. Their athleticism is clear. They are not surprising in what they did.”
As the team’s momentum builds, expectations rise. Pochettino remains optimistic, saying, “I think it’s much better when you show good performances and win the games. I think that makes it easier, everything. But, at the same time, it’s (important) to keep believing.”
Freeman acknowledged Pulisic’s vital role while praising Ricardo Pepi’s performance, “For us it was, we have Ricardo Pepi, who came in and had an amazing game. I think that just shows how (good) our roster is.”
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