The United States men's national team has gained a high-profile supporter in Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who declared them contenders to win the World Cup after their second straight victory. Following a 2-0 win over Australia on Friday that secured a spot in the knockout stage, US players embraced the former Sweden striker's confidence.
Players Echo Ibrahimovic's Belief
Asked on Fox's postgame broadcast whether the co-hosts can win the World Cup, Ibrahimovic answered simply: “Yes.” When informed of his comments, US defender Chris Richards responded, “I don’t think it’s ridiculous. We want to lift a trophy by the end of this.” Fellow defender Auston Trusty added, “That’s our mindset. I don’t think you enter this tournament not to have that mindset. To have [Ibrahimovic] say that about us, that’s amazing. But I’m sure he knows as well, it’s game-by-game.”
Freeman Shines in Victory
The emergence of 21-year-old defender Alex Freeman has been pivotal. Playing on the right side of a three-man backline, Freeman scored the second goal to seal the win, initially ruled out for offside but confirmed after a lengthy VAR review. “I think you dream of this moment,” said Freeman, son of Super Bowl champion Antonio Freeman. “And for it to finally happen with such a support system to help you celebrate it makes it so much more special. When it was confirmed, I saw all my teammates running and I thought: ‘I’ve got to run away, they’re going to tackle me!’”
Pochettino's Vision
US head coach Mauricio Pochettino, who stated at his introductory press conference that his goal is to win the World Cup, praised Freeman and the development system. “The evolution is massive,” Pochettino said. “He has potential to be one of the best players in his position in the world. He’s a humble guy, he has an amazing profile. He wants to learn. He always listens … you really enjoy being with him.” The US best finish at a men's World Cup was third-place in 1930, with a quarter-final run in 2002 as their best modern result.
