Folarin Balogun coaches referee through stretches after official cramps up during USA vs Australia match

The U.S. Men's National Team beats Australia 2-0 at the 2026 World Cup as German referee Felix Zwayer goes down with a cramp in Seattle's heat.

Folarin Balogun coaches referee through stretches after official cramps up during USA vs Australia match

TL;DR

  • German referee Felix Zwayer suffered a cramp during the U.S. Men's National Team vs. Australia World Cup match.
  • The incident occurred on a hot day in Seattle.
  • U.S. player Folarin Balogun and Australia's Aiden O'Neill helped the referee by coaching him through stretches.
  • Zwayer received assistance from FIFA medical staff and a liquid, possibly pickle juice.
  • The event highlighted the significant physical demands on soccer referees.