Australia World Cup manager Tony Popovic calls out referee after big loss to Team USA

Landon Donovan and Colin Cowherd react to the news that Christian Pulisic will miss USA vs. Australia, and they discuss the USMNT’s chances to win back-to-back World Cup games for the first time since 1930. Plus, they preview the matchup between Brazil and Haiti.

Australia coach Tony Popovic shared his thoughts on a referee after Friday's 2-0 loss to the U.S. in Seattle.

"I think today was, I wouldn’t say the best day for the referee," Popovic told reporters after the game.

A controversial moment came when the Americans appeared to score their second goal. The play was initially called back for offside, but after a VAR review, officials determined the goal was valid and let it stand.

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Tony Popovic, head coach of Australia, reacts during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group D match between the U.S. and Australia at Seattle Stadium in Seattle, Wash., on June 19, 2026. (Sarah Stier/FIFA/Getty Images)

The U.S. found the back of the net at the end of the 43rd minute after a free kick was stopped, and then Alex Freeman, the son of former NFL player Antonio Freeman, headed a ball in. The score was immediately protested by the Australians, who felt their goalkeeper had been impeded or there was an offside. After a VAR review, the call stood, and the goal was awarded.

Tensions boiled over late in the match when a physical altercation broke out. Australia's Harry Souttar grabbed the USA's Folarin Balogun in what commentators described as a "rear naked choke." Zwayer regained control by issuing yellow cards to Balogun, Souttar and Australia's Jacob Italiano.

Australia received four yellow cards, while the U.S. received three.

Popovic was seen approaching German match official Felix Zwayer after the