Philadelphia Union Homegrown Matt Freese helped the United States move one step closer to the FIFA World Cup Quarterfinals on Wednesday night, starting in goal as the USMNT earned a 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32.
The win marked the USMNT’s first knockout-round victory at the FIFA World Cup since June 17, 2002, when the United States defeated rival Mexico, 2-0, in the Round of 16.
The result sends the United States into the Round of 16, where it will face Belgium on Monday, July 6, at 8 p.m. ET. The matchup comes after Belgium advanced earlier Wednesday with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Senegal.
Freese, who became the first Philadelphia Union Homegrown to play in a FIFA World Cup earlier in the tournament, once again got the nod between the posts for the United States in the knockout-round opener. The Union Homegrown helped anchor a strong defensive effort as the Americans kept Bosnia and Herzegovina off the scoreboard to extend their tournament run.
The breakthrough came just before halftime when Folarin Balogun found the back of the net in the 45th minute to put the United States in front. The goal gave the hosts a 1-0 lead heading into the break, but the Americans were forced to navigate adversity after Balogun was shown a red card following a VAR review.
Despite going down to 10 men, the United States found a second goal in the 82nd minute when Malik Tillman scored off a free kick to double the advantage. The late finish gave the hosts breathing room as they closed out the result and secured their place in the next round.
With the result, the United States advances deeper into the knockout rounds in front of the home crowd and keeps its FIFA World Cup run alive. Freese’s start added another chapter to a historic tournament for Philadelphia Union’s player pathway, with Union Homegrowns and alumni continuing to make an impact on soccer’s biggest stage.
Fans can cheer on the United States in the Round of 16 at Soccer Celebration presented by Michelob ULTRA on Monday, July 6, at Union Yards. The free watch party will feature the Giant LED Screen, live entertainment, and “Flavors of the Matchday,” with complimentary tickets available through SeatGeek, the Philadelphia Union’s official ticketing partner.
