The United States secured a place in the World Cup knockout rounds with a convincing 2-0 victory over Australia on Friday, proving it could succeed even without injured captain Christian Pulisic.
The Americans also sealed top spot in Group D after Paraguay national football team defeated Turkey national football team 1-0 later in the day.
Pulisic, who plays for AC Milan and has scored 33 goals in 87 international appearances, missed the match due to a calf injury. However, the U.S. squad showed its depth by delivering another strong performance.
The victory marked the first time since 1930 that the United States has won its opening two matches at a World Cup. The team has now scored six goals in the tournament, just one short of its all-time World Cup scoring record.
The Americans took the lead in the 11th minute when a dangerous attack led by Folarin Balogun resulted in an own goal by Australian defender Cameron Burgess.
The second goal came shortly before halftime when 21-year-old Alex Freeman headed home a deflected effort from Sergiño Dest. The goal, Freeman’s first in a World Cup, was confirmed after a video review.
U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino praised the young defender's rapid development, describing him as a humble player eager to learn and improve.
Australia struggled to cope with the Americans' pace and physicality, particularly in the first half. Socceroos coach Tony Popovic acknowledged the quality of the U.S. side, saying their performance did not come as a surprise.
As Group D winners, the United States will play a Round-of-32 match in Santa Clara, California, on July 1 against one of the tournament’s third-place finishers.
The strong start has raised expectations for the U.S. team, but Pochettino stressed the importance of staying focused while continuing to build confidence through positive performances and results.
The match also highlighted the depth of the American squad, with striker Ricardo Pepi stepping into the lineup in Pulisic’s absence and contributing to the team's success.