New Delhi, June 20 -- Alex Freeman's first FIFA World Cup goal for the United States was briefly disallowed before being reinstated following a VAR review during the co-hosts' group stage match against Australia in Seattle on Friday. The decision extended USA's strong start to the tournament and sparked fresh debate over the application of the semi-automated offside system.

The United States took the lead in the 11th minute when Australian defender Cameron Burgess turned a cross into his own net. The early breakthrough gave the home side a 1-0 advantage and lifted the atmosphere inside the Seattle stadium.

Shortly before halftime, Alex Freeman rose to head home a deflected shot from Sergino Dest. The ball looped into the air, and Freema...