New York, June 20 -- Legendary footballer Zlatan Ibrahimovic has backed the United States to make a deep World Cup run after their 2-0 victory over Australia secured consecutive World Cup wins for the first time since 1930.

He believes the Americans have the momentum, confidence and home support needed to compete for football's biggest prize.

The United States secured their place in the World Cup knockout stage with a 2-0 victory over Australia in Seattle, extending its winning streak to two matches.

An early own goal by Cameron Burgess and a well-taken header from Alex Freeman sealed the result, marking the Americans' second consecutive triumph of the tournament.

"If you didn't believe before, I will repeat; start believing. They hav...