After the US defeated Australia 2-0 in the second Group D match in Seattle on 19/6, Ibrahimovic was asked on a FOX Sports program if the US could reach the final. The former Swedish striker's response was a concise: "Yes".

Ibrahimovic's single-word answer quickly drew attention, as the US was not initially considered a championship contender. However, their performance after the first two matches has prompted many to rethink.

Ibrahimovic believes the US is capable of winning the 2026 World Cup, commenting after their 2-0 victory over Australia in the second match of Group D in Seattle, Washington, US on 19/6. *Photo: screenshot*.

In their opening match against Paraguay in Los Angeles, the US demonstrated superior strength, winning 4-1. Forward Folarin Balogun scored two goals, helping coach Mauricio Pochettino's team secure an early advantage in Group D.

Against Australia, the US continued to show that their victory over Paraguay was no fluke. Despite the absence of Christian Pulisic due to injury, the co-host team controlled the game and won 2-0. This result placed the US at the top of the group with 6 points after two matches, securing an early spot in the round of 16.

Center-back Chris Richards echoed Ibrahimovic's sentiment. When asked about the former Swedish star's statement, Richards suggested that World Cup championship aspirations are not unrealistic for the US national team. "I don't think it's ridiculous to say that we want to win the World Cup," said the Crystal Palace defender. "Obviously, we have many games before reaching that moment, but we will take it one game at a time."

Richards also stated that the US's ultimate goal is to win the championship. To achieve that, they need to win five more matches in the knockout rounds.

Malik Tillman (left) and Weston McKennie celebrate after the 2-0 victory over Australia in the second match of Group D at the 2026 World Cup in Seattle on 19/6. *Photo: AP*.

This marks a promising start for the US at their home World Cup. Historically, the US's best World Cup performance was reaching the quarterfinals in 2002. Before this year's tournament, many considered repeating that achievement a suitable objective for the Pochettino-led team.

However, the team's performance after two matches has significantly raised expectations. The US has not only secured wins but also displayed a balance between offense and defense. The team conceded only one goal in two matches, while their attack created numerous dangerous opportunities.

Pochettino remains cautious. The Argentine coach believes the team must maintain focus rather than thinking too far ahead about the championship. He urged his players to continue working diligently, remain disciplined, and avoid complacency. Nevertheless, in their next match, they face Turkey, a team already eliminated.

Pochettino also commended the American audience. He described the atmosphere at the Seattle stadium as moving, noting that the connection between fans and the team generated additional energy for the players. "The fans are amazing. Their support and the way they celebrate victories make everything very emotional," he said.

Midfielder Tyler Adams also reminded his teammates to avoid excessive excitement after the two victories. He wants the team to quickly refocus, preventing emotions from impacting their journey ahead.

By Hoang An (based on ESPN, Mirror)