The USMNT booked their place in the World Cup knockout rounds with a 2-0 win over Australia in Seattle. Cameron Burgess’ own goal put them ahead before Alexander Freeman doubled the lead before halftime.
The result gave Mauricio Pochettino’s side six points from two matches and it also made the United States the first team in World Cup history to benefit from own goals in back-to-back matches.
Still, Burgess’ early mistake added another chapter to an unexpected World Cup trend for the USMNT, as the United States has now moved into rare company on a curious list.
Only France has benefited from more own goals than the United States in World Cups
According to ESPN, the USMNT has now benefited from five own goals in World Cup history.
That puts the United States second all-time, behind only France, who has had six own goals scored in their favour at the tournament.
Burgess’ own goal came after 11 minutes against Australia, giving the USMNT another early platform to control the match.
It followed Damian Bobadilla’s own goal in the opener against Paraguay, which came in the seventh minute and also set the tone.
There is always luck involved in an own goal, but the USMNT’s fast starts and attacking width have played a part in forcing those mistakes.
Supporters will hope that trend continues as, in the knockout stage, one own goal can carry even more weight.
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