The United States Men's National Team (USMNT) took down Australia in their second group stage game of the 2026 World Cup, ensuring that they book a spot in the knockout rounds of the competition.
Even without the injured Christian Pulisic, the USA squad impressed with a 2-0 win, overwhelming the Socceroos who couldn't find a way past the Americans' defense.
The USMNT first scored via an own goal from center-back Cameron Burgess, who hit the ball into the net after trying to deflect Folarin Balogun's low cross from the left side. The USA made it 2-0 before the interval with a header from Alex Freeman off a deflected shot from Sergino Dest.
After winning their World Cup opener against Paraguay 4-1, the USA has now accumulated six points and is now assured of topping Group D with one match left to play before the knockout stage.
IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters/Blake Dahlin
Interestingly, however, the USA's performance against Australia was not the only thing that trended online during the contest.
Prior to the meeting, the USA's national anthem was played at Seattle Stadium. While there was no designated performer, unlike in the opener when American country duo Dan + Shay delivered an "iconic" rendition of the song, the instrumentals and the crowd of Americans standing and singing the national anthem in unison created an incredible moment.
Making it even better, there was an epic flyover right as the national anthem concluded.
"An entire stadium of Americans standing up, hands over their hearts, singing the National Anthem in unison, is the most appropriate way to thank a Soldier for their service," a commenter wrote.
Another one said, "This is awesome!! I don’t want to hear Americans don’t love our country! Just look at the people there loud and proud."
"It was so beautiful to hear. Seattle making America proud," a fan added. A viewer shared, "Beautiful moment to hear the crowd singing the National Anthem all together."
"Y’all did that!!! Way to go America!! God bless the USA!!" a follower stated.
"I had the chills the whole time!!!" a sixth poster exclaimed. A supporter noted, "A sight to behold!!"
While some others took notice of how the national anthem was played a little bit faster than normal, the majority of the reception to it has been positive.
Sure enough, when the USMNT plays Turkiye in their final group stage game in Los Angeles next Thursday, there will be high expectations for the national anthem performance.
