The absence of Christian Pulisic didn’t hinder the United States during the World Cup. The American team advanced to the knockout stage by defeating Australia 2-0 in a match held on Friday during the expanded 48-team tournament. They secured the top spot in Group D following Paraguay’s 1-0 victory over Turkey in Santa Clara, California.

Folarin Balogun, who scored two goals in a previous 4-1 victory against Paraguay, praised Pulisic’s influence, saying, “C.P. is a fantastic player, providing both quality and leadership. Despite his absence, we demonstrated our capability to achieve results and deliver performances.”

The U.S. will now face a third-place finisher from another group in the round of 32, scheduled for July 1 in Santa Clara. Pulisic was unavailable for the Friday match due to a calf injury. He plays for AC Milan and boasts 33 goals in 87 international appearances. The absence of such a player might have negatively impacted earlier American World Cup teams, but the situation has changed signficantly since the U.S. last hosted the tournament in 1994. In 1994, they advanced as one of the top third-place teams only to lose to Brazil, the eventual champions, in the round of 16.

This World Cup marks the first time since 1930 that the U.S. has won consecutive games during the tournament. With six goals scored so far, they are close to breaking their own World Cup record. Contributions have come from across the roster. Alex Freeman, at just 21 years old, scored the second goal in the 43rd minute. He headed in a deflected shot from Sergiño Dest, marking his first career World Cup goal. The goal was confirmed after video review.

Coach Mauricio Pochettino praised Freeman, saying, “The evolution is massive. He’s humble and eager to learn. He’s a player you enjoy having around.”

Balogun initiated the scoring with a run down the left sideline. His centering pass aimed for striker Ricardo Pepi but ended up as an own goal, courtesy of Australia defender Cameron Burgess.

Balogun explained, “I aim to be dangerous and create opportunities. Even if it’s not me scoring, forcing an error that gives us the lead feels like scoring. It was a great start to gain momentum.”

Australia’s coach Tony Popovic acknowledged the American dominance in the first half, saying, “Their quality, power, and athleticism are evident. Their performance was not surprising.”

Expectations are rising for the U.S. team as they build momentum. Pochettino stressed, “Winning with good performances is easier, but maintaining belief is crucial. We proved we can advance without Pulisic.” Freeman emphasized the team’s depth, saying, “Christian’s vital contributions are undeniable, but others like Ricardo Pepi also deliver outstanding performances.”

Corrected information: The Turkey vs. Paraguay game concluded late Friday, local time, in California.