Seattle saw the U.S. advancing to the knockout round of the World Cup despite the absence of star forward Christian Pulisic due to injury. The Americans secured a 2-0 win over Australia on Friday, marking their second consecutive victory in the expanded 48-team tournament.
The U.S. topped Group D after Paraguay’s 1-0 triumph over Turkey in Santa Clara, California. “CP is a fantastic player — the quality and the leadership that he gives us,” said Folarin Balogun, who scored twice in the previous 4-1 victory against Paraguay on June 12. “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.”
Pulisic, a key player for AC Milan, with 33 goals in 87 international appearances, missed the match due to a calf injury. Historically, playing without Pulisic could have adversely affected the American team. Changes since their 1994 World Cup hosting days have increased the team’s resilience.
In contrast to the past, the team has won consecutive World Cup games for the first time since 1930, scoring six goals — nearly matching their record for a single World Cup. The roster’s depth has been showcased through various contributions.
Alex Freeman, at 21 the youngest player and son of Super Bowl champion Antonio Freeman, scored his first World Cup goal, contributing to the 2-0 lead in the 43rd minute. Freeman headed in a deflected shot from Sergiño Dest, with the goal confirmed by a video review. Coach Mauricio Pochettino praised Freeman’s growth, humility, and willingness to learn.
Early in the game, the U.S. gained a lead due to an own-goal by Australian defender Cameron Burgess following a deflected pass aimed at striker Ricardo Pepi. Pepi had started in place of Pulisic. Alex Freeman’s goal further bolstered the lead, leading to celebration.
Folarin Balogun’s aggressive approach paid off, even without direct scoring, as he forced errors creating opportunities. “I want to be dangerous, I want to create opportunities,” he stated. His efforts helped secure the lead and momentum.
While the score remained unchanged after halftime, the U.S. team’s halftime dominance left a strong impression on Socceroos coach Tony Popovic, who acknowledged the Americans’ evident skills and physical capabilities.
Expectations continue to rise as the U.S. team racks up wins. Pochettino’s confidence in the team remains firm as they progress. “I think it’s much better when you show good performances and win the games,” Pochettino shared. “I think that makes it easier, everything. But at the same time, it’s (important) to keep believing.”
Despite the absence of Pulisic, the U.S. demonstrated their capacity to advance from the group stage. Freeman highlighted the roster’s depth, especially with Ricardo Pepi’s excellent 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,” he stated, underlining the strength of the team.
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