DON'T MISS A MOMENT OF THE WORLD CUP

USMNT player ratings vs Australia: Folarin Balogun and Alex Freeman shine as Americans push past Socceroos to reach World Cup knockouts

After opening their World Cup campaign with a commanding victory over Paraguay, the United States men’s national team delivered another convincing performance in front of a vibrant Seattle crowd.

At first, there was silence — then an eruption. As the stadium roared, Alex Freeman sprinted down the flank, chased by no one in particular. Around him, American flags waved and scarves were flung high as the celebrations began. At that moment, in front of thousands of jubilant fans in Seattle, it became clear: the U.S. men’s national team were at it again.

Just a week after their historic opening win against Paraguay, the USMNT secured back-to-back victories to confirm their place in the World Cup knockout rounds. Their 2-0 win over Australia on Friday may not have been as one-sided as the 4-1 triumph against Paraguay, but it was equally commanding. For the second straight game, the U.S. outclassed a strong opponent to collect three crucial points — and did it all without their talisman, Christian Pulisic, who sat out due to a calf injury.

The match once again began brightly, with an early breakthrough. Just 11 minutes in, after some early exchanges, Folarin Balogun sliced through the Australian backline and crossed dangerously into the box. Defender Cameron Burgess, under pressure, could only deflect the ball into his own net. It was a vital opener that settled nerves and cemented the U.S. game plan — they never looked back.

Freeman doubled the advantage just before halftime, sealing the result. After Sergino Dest’s shot was blocked, the rebound looped up perfectly for Freeman, who nodded it home from close range. Initially flagged offside, Freeman’s celebration was delayed until a lengthy VAR check confirmed the goal.

That verdict was worth the wait — and it ultimately propelled the U.S. into the knockout round. They could even top their group later that night if Paraguay managed to lend a helping hand.

These back-to-back dominant displays have reshaped expectations and raised the bar for American football at the global stage. The Seattle crowd’s energy was electric throughout, and if the team continues to perform at this level, that support will only grow louder as the tournament progresses.

GOAL provides the player ratings from Seattle...

Goalkeeper & Defence

Matt Freese (6/10):

Made an early save to settle any nerves, and from then on, had little to do as the U.S. controlled proceedings.

Antonee Robinson (6/10):

Effective on the left flank and provided attacking width, though he did pick up a careless yellow card in the second half.

Tim Ream (7/10):

Won numerous aerial duels and distributed the ball calmly from the back. A typically composed performance.

Chris Richards (7/10):

Had one nervy moment early on but recovered strongly. Was instrumental in stifling an Australian attack in the second half and led the team in touches, helping the U.S. dictate possession.

Alex Freeman (8/10):

Scored a crucial goal that capped a superb first half. Beyond his goal, Freeman was physically imposing and set the tone against a tough Australian side.

Sergino Dest (7/10):

Displayed flair and confidence on the ball, tormenting the opposition with his creativity. When Dest is in form, he’s a joy to watch — and Australia had front-row seats to the show.

Midfield

Tyler Adams (8/10):

Dropped deep effectively to protect the defence and managed transitions well. Produced a vital late block to preserve the clean sheet.

Weston McKennie (8/10):

Outstanding throughout. Australia struggled to contain him both in possession and during pressing phases. A commanding display from a midfielder at the top of his game.

Malik Tillman (7/10):

Showed great strength in maintaining possession during the passage that led to Freeman’s goal. Contributed solidly in several other moments as well.

Attack

Folarin Balogun (7/10):

Brilliantly set up the opening goal with a burst of pace that dismantled the Australian defence. Continued to threaten and was unfortunate not to score himself.

Ricardo Pepi (6/10):

Performed his role diligently, causing problems for Australia’s towering centre-backs. Though he lacked a decisive moment, he kept their defence busy.

Substitutes & Manager

Sebastian Berhalter (6/10):

Came on for Pepi to inject energy into midfield. Did not have much else to do as the U.S. managed the game comfortably.

Auston Trusty (6/10):

Introduced late to reinforce the defence. His presence helped see out the final minutes against a pressing Australia.

Joe Scally (6/10):

Another defensive change late in the match to maintain control and secure the clean sheet.

Gio Reyna (N/A):

Entered in stoppage time with little opportunity to influence proceedings.

Haji Wright (N/A):

Came on alongside Reyna and managed one late attempt at goal.

Mauricio Pochettino (7/10):

Had to make a key decision in Pulisic’s absence, and it paid off. The U.S. dominated possession, restricted Australia’s chances, and secured another three points. If there’s one critique, he might have made substitutions a bit earlier to avoid unnecessary cautions and fatigue late on.