Alex Freeman, the 21-year-old son of former NFL star Antonio Freeman, scored his first career World Cup goal to help the United States defeat Australia 2-0 on Friday and secure a spot in the knockout round after just two group-stage matches for the first time in program history.
Freeman’s header in the 43rd minute off a deflected Sergiño Dest shot was confirmed after a video review, doubling the Americans’ lead before halftime. The goal came from a set piece and marked a breakthrough for the youngest player on the U.S. roster.
Folarin Balogun opened the scoring in the 11th minute with a run down the left flank. His centering pass intended for striker Ricardo Pepi, who started in place of injured Christian Pulisic, deflected off Australia defender Cameron Burgess for an own-goal.
Pulisic, the AC Milan forward with 33 goals in 87 international appearances, missed the match with a calf injury. The U.S. depth was on display as they clinched advancement after only two matches, a feat not achieved when the Americans hosted the World Cup in 1994, when they advanced as one of the best third-place teams before losing to eventual champion Brazil in the round of 16.
