USMNT goalkeeper Matt Freese was booed by Columbus Crew fans during New York City FC's 2-1 victory on Thursday, with supporters still angry about his perceived role in the United States' World Cup elimination against Belgium. Freese made a costly error when he rushed out of his box, allowing Belgium to go 3-1 up.
Fans on social media joked that the hostile reception showed the US is 'finally becoming a proper footballing country.' After the game, NYCFC manager Pascal Jansen praised his goalkeeper's composure: 'It was almost the whole stadium booing him, trying to get him off his game. But if you look back at how he handled himself, you can only give him a massive compliment.'
Freese will get a run of home games next, with New York hosting Chicago Fire and Toronto FC at Etihad Park, and Santos Laguna in the Leagues Cup on August 6.
Chelsea (2023–2024)
PSG (2021–2022)
Tottenham (2014–2019)
Chicago Fire