The United States men's national team has gained a high-profile supporter in Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who declared the co-hosts can win the World Cup after their second consecutive victory. Following Friday's 2-0 win over Australia, US players echoed the Swedish legend's confidence.
Players Embrace the Challenge
Defender Chris Richards dismissed any notion that the goal is unrealistic. "I don't think it's ridiculous," he said. "We want to lift a trophy by the end of this."
Fellow defender Auston Trusty agreed, emphasizing the team's mindset. "That's our mindset," Trusty said. "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
Friday's win secured the US a spot in the knockout stage, thanks in part to the emergence of 21-year-old defender Alex Freeman. Playing on the right side of a three-man backline, Freeman scored the second goal 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."
Pochettino's Praise
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 men's best World Cup finish was third place in the tournament's first edition in 1930, with a quarter-final run in 2002 being their best modern result.
