Alex Freeman’s rise into a key starter for the U.S. Men’s national team took to new heights on Friday.
Freeman scored his first FIFA World Cup goal and delivered a strong 90-minute shift in the USMNT’s 2-0 Group D victory over Australia at Seattle Stadium. The 21-year-old defender earned SBI USMNT Man of the Match honors for his impactful two-way performance.
A Cameron Burgess own goal propelled Mauricio Pochettino’s squad in front after 11 minutes before Freeman etched his name on the scoresheet ahead of halftime.
Sergino Dest’s shot at the top of the Australia box was deflected into the air but Freeman showed great awareness to pounce first and head home the rebound. The goal gave the USMNT a two-goal cushion, one that they wouldn’t let slip away against the Socceroos.
“I think it was a surreal moment, to be able to contribute to my team in any way I can,” Freeman said in a postmatch interview on FOX. “At first I was a little anxious because the play went to VAR but to be able to celebrate the whole moment with my teammates just made it all whole. I am happy that I could also contribute to a clean sheet and a win.
“When the goal got confirmed I looked back and saw all of my teammates running so I was like ‘oh no I better run or else I’m going to get tackled’,” Freeman added. “It’s a moment that you dream of and to have that support system with you celebrating it, it just makes it that much more special.”
The USMNT backline stood firm in the second half to help preserve a clean sheet with Freeman finishing as one of the headlining performers overall.
Freeman won 10 duels, drew one foul, made five clearances, two tackles, and completed two dribbles. He edged Tyler Adams, Chris Richards, and Weston McKennie for Man of the Match honors.
What did you think of Freeman’s performance? How high do you rate him in the USMNT pool? What are you hoping to see from him going forward?
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