Football icon Zlatan Ibrahimovic believed that the co-host United States has the belief, momentum and backing required to make a serious challenge for the FIFA World Cup 2026 title. His comments came after the United States secured a 2-0 victory over Australia to book a place in the knockout stage of the tournament. The result also marked the first time since 1930 that the Americans have registered back-to-back wins at a FIFA World Cup.
The hosts took control of the match early after an own goal from Australia’s Cameron Burgess. Alex Freeman then added a second goal with a header to seal the result and continue the team’s impressive run in the competition.
Speaking after the match, Ibrahimovic said the team’s growing confidence and support from fans could make them difficult opponents in the later stages of the competition. He urged supporters to believe in the team’s potential, stressing that playing with the backing of an entire nation can provide a significant advantage during major tournaments.
The former striker also praised the United States’ performance against Australia, saying the opposition offered little threat throughout the contest. Zlatan noted that events leading up to the tournament no longer matter and that the focus should remain on current performances and momentum.
According to him, the United States must continue buildin g confidence from one game to the next as they progress through the competition. With qualification for the knockout rounds already secured, he suggested the team now has the flexibility to manage its squad ahead of the next phase of the tournament.
The victory over Australia represented a significant milestone for the United States. It was the country’s second consecutive win at the World Cup and its first instance of back-to-back victories in the competition since 1930.
The result strengthened the hosts’ position in the tournament and added to growing optimism surrounding their World Cup campaign.
Ibrahimovic’s endorsement is likely to further fuel excitement among American fans as the team prepares for the challenges ahead in the knockout rounds.