Antonio Freeman knows big moments. The former Packers receiver caught Brett Favre’s passes in Super Bowls and made some of the most iconic plays in franchise history. But watching his son do it on a different kind of grass? That hit different.
Alex Freeman, the 23-year-old fullback for the US men’s national team, scored a massive goal in a 2-0 win over Australia at Los Angeles Stadium on Monday. The result punched the Americans’ ticket to the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a perfect six points in Group D play.
A Headliner Before Halftime
The younger Freeman struck in the 43rd minute. He pushed forward from his defensive spot and powered a header into the net to double the US lead. The first goal came on an own goal from Australia’s Cameron Burgess in the 11th minute. Freeman and the rest of the back line locked things down from there, keeping the clean sheet and sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
It’s been a breakout tournament for Freeman. He wasn’t a lock to start when World Cup rosters were submitted. But injuries and his own sharp performances in camp pushed him into the lineup. He has not looked back.
Antonio Freeman watched from home but made his feelings clear during an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show.
“What I see is magic,” the Packers Hall of Famer said. “They all just want to win, and they want to win for this country. Their camaraderie, it glows.”
A Different Sport, Same Freak Energy
Antonio built his name on Lambeau Field’s frozen tundra. He earned a Super Bowl ring with the Packers in 1996 and made the Pro Bowl in 1998. Alex is carving his own path on a soccer pitch. The shift from football to soccer might seem strange, but the Freemans don’t see it that way. It’s still about making plays when it matters.
Alex came up through Orlando City’s academy and signed with the USMNT setup after strong showings in MLS. His pace and willingness to attack from the back have drawn comparisons to the modern fullback mold. But his clutch gene — that part looks inherited.
The USMNT now turns to the Round of 32. The draw is still undetermined, but the team carries real momentum. Managers across the tournament have noted the squad’s defensive solidity. Freeman is a big reason for that.
For Antonio, there’s a simple joy in seeing the family name back in the spotlight. He told Eisen he’s just happy to be a dad in the stands (or on the couch) watching his kid thrive. No ring can top that, he said.
The knockout stage starts later this week. If Alex Freeman keeps playing like this, the USMNT could make a real run. And Antonio will be watching every second.
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