Alex Freeman produced a decisive World Cup moment in the U.S. men’s national team’s group-stage match against Australia, heading home a Sergiño Dest deflected attempt into the empty net after Patrick Beach failed to stop the ball. The goal was initially ruled out for offside but was upheld following a lengthy VAR review, much to the delight of teammates and the crowd, according to ESPN.
The finish followed an earlier showcase of Freeman’s technique in a friendly against Uruguay last November. In that match, he collected a pass from Auston Trusty, used a hip fake to elude Ronald Araújo, absorbed a challenge from Manuel Ugarte and scored his second goal of the night in a 5-1 victory, according to ESPN. His father, former All-Pro wide receiver Antonio Freeman, attended the game and reacted enthusiastically.
Former Green Bay Packers teammates watched the skill and drew comparisons to Antonio. One former teammate said, “He definitely got your hips,” and another observed that Alex “looks just like you running the slant,” according to ESPN. Antonio demonstrated the running motion while sitting in an Atlanta hotel lobby and told ESPN he saw the resemblance when he reviewed film. He texted that watching his son was “Amazing to watch,” according to ESPN.
Freeman described the Australia celebration as an emotional moment, noting teammates ran toward him and he had to join them, according to ESPN. He called the family connection “great,” saying it shows how a successful father can mentor a son to be ready for big moments while allowing the son to be great in his own way, according to ESPN.
The rise to a World Cup starting role has been rapid. A year ago Freeman was about three months into his first season as a starter with Orlando City SC and had received his first U.S. call-up. He now plays for LaLiga side Villarreal, with performances at right back in Mauricio Pochettino’s hybrid system giving the U.S. manager license to push Dest into a more attacking role, according to ESPN. Freeman told ESPN the past year has required adjustment and described making the World Cup as “surreal,” saying he aims to take opportunities step by step, according to ESPN.
