The USA defeated Australia and advanced early to the Round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup; the referee required medical assistance
Kyiv • UNN
The US national team beat Australia (2-0) in the group stage of the 2026 World Cup and became the second team after Mexico to secure a spot in the playoffs. Referee Felix Zwayer received medical attention due to cramps in the 90+4th minute.
The US national team defeated Australia with a score of 2:0 in a group stage match of the FIFA World Cup and became the second team in the tournament after Mexico to secure early qualification for the Round of 16, reports UNN.
Details
The Americans opened the scoring already in the 11th minute after an own goal by Australian defender Cameron Burgess. Before the break, the US team doubled their lead – in the 43rd minute, Alex Freeman scored. In the second half, the score remained unchanged, although the Australians made a series of substitutions in an attempt to save the match.
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The most unexpected episode occurred already in stoppage time. In the 90+4th minute, the main referee of the match, Felix Zwayer, experienced severe cramps in his legs and was forced to receive medical assistance right on the field. After a short pause, the German referee was able to continue working and brought the match to the final whistle.
The victory allowed the USA to earn six points and secure their place in the playoffs early. Australia, in the final round, will be forced to fight for a chance to continue their performances at the World Cup.