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The USMNT is through to the World Cup knockout rounds after a convincing two-nothing win over Australia in Seattle, and they did it without Christian Pulisic. The absence of their biggest star didn't slow them down — this team found a way, and that's a statement.
The story of the night belonged to Alex Freeman, who was the surprise standout in the player ratings, outshining even Tyler Adams and Malik Tillman. Freeman's performance had people doing double-takes, and in a tournament this big, unexpected heroes are exactly what a deep run is built on.
Meanwhile, off the pitch, there's a subplot that's got World Cup viewers buzzing — Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Alexi Lalas. Fans are convinced the Swedish legend has some serious cold feelings toward the former USMNT defender turned broadcaster, and the body language on camera has been hard to ignore. Whether it's real or just Zlatan being Zlatan, the internet has made up its mind.
That's your play-by-play. Sports Desk, back to the booth.
