Popovic Blasts Referee After Australia’s 2-0 Loss to U.S. as VAR Lets Freeman Goal Stand
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jun 19
Popovic Blasts Referee After Australia’s 2-0 Loss to U.S. as VAR Lets Freeman Goal Stand
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jun 19
Summary
Tony Popovic said referee Felix Zwayer did not have his best day after Australia’s 2-0 World Cup loss to the United States in Seattle, focusing on a disputed second U.S. goal.
The flashpoint came in the 43rd minute when Alex Freeman headed in after a saved free kick; officials first ruled it offside, then awarded it after VAR despite Australian protests over offside or goalkeeper interference.
Late tempers flared when Harry Souttar grabbed Folarin Balogun in a physical altercation, and Zwayer booked Balogun, Souttar and Jacob Italiano as Australia finished with four yellow cards to the U.S.’s three.
Popovic still credited the Americans, saying Australia looked sluggish and lost key duels, while the U.S. improved to 2-0 with six points atop Group D and Australia stayed second on three.