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U.S. Beats Australia 2-0, First Team with Consecutive Own Goals

6/20/2026

41 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The United States became the first men’s World Cup team to score own-goal goals in two consecutive matches.
The U.S. defeated Australia 2-0 in Seattle, securing a knockout-round berth and six points in the group.
Christian Pulisic missed the match with a calf injury.
Ricardo Pepi started in Pulisic’s place.
Alex Freeman scored his first World Cup goal with a header after a VAR review confirmed he was onside.

History

Historical Context

In 1994 the United States hosted the World Cup, with the knockout stage opening on July 2 and the team reaching the round of 16 as one of the best third-placed sides, its first World Cup win since 1950. The 2024 squad, featuring Ricardo Pepi and Alex Freeman, repeated early setbacks by conceding own-goals, prompting renewed focus on youth development and infrastructure.

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Story summary

The United States became the first men’s World Cup team to score own-goal goals in two consecutive matches.
The U.S. defeated Australia 2-0 in Seattle, securing a knockout-round berth and six points in the group.
Christian Pulisic missed the match with a calf injury.
Ricardo Pepi started in Pulisic’s place.
Alex Freeman scored his first World Cup goal with a header after a VAR review confirmed he was onside.

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