Timothy Weah describes ‘amazing feeling’ of scoring World Cup goal in front of his father George
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Timothy Weah says being an underdog is nothing new for the USMNT ahead of their crucial showdown with England on Friday.
The 22-year-old scored in the USA’s 1-1 draw with Wales in their Group B opener on Monday and then faces Gareth Southgate’s side, favorites to win the group. He sees it as an opportunity to show what they can do.
“I think we’ve always been considered an underdog in the eyes of America,” he said FOX Sports.
“I think they wonder if we can play football? This is an opportunity to show the world that we can compete with the best and beat the best.”
Weah’s goal against Wales in Monday’s Group B opener was notable for two reasons: it was the first time the United States had played in a World Cup match since 2014, and it came before his celebrated father, George, the Liberian president and the 1995 Ballon d’Or winner, who has never played on the biggest football stage.
American football star Timothy Weah spoke to ABC’s Good Morning American about his recent goal
Liberian President George Weah (left) and his son Timothy, an American soccer star, dined together in Qatar this week after the 22-year-old’s stunning goal in his World Cup debut
“It’s a great feeling,” 22-year-old Weah told ABC’s Good Morning America on Thursday, following Team USA’s 1-1 draw against Wales. “I mean, you know when he was playing he didn’t get the chance to take his country to a World Cup and now his son is doing his very best here so I know he’s proud.
“My mom and dad go crazy in the stadium. I saw them when I scored. I know they’re proud of me and, you know, I just want to make them proud here and keep doing well.”
George, Timothy and Liberia’s First Lady, Timothy’s Jamaican-born mother Clar Marie, were spotted together at a dinner party in Qatar this week. George later posted pictures of the meal on Twitter.
“Just had dinner with my son Timothy Weah,” George wrote. ‘Proud daddy.’
George, Timothy and Liberia’s First Lady, Timothy’s Jamaican-born mother Clar Marie, were spotted together in Qatar this week. George later posted pictures of the meal on Twitter
And he had every reason to be proud of his son.
Timothy gave the US a 1-0 lead in the 36th minute of Monday’s World Cup opener after 19-year-old teammate Yunus Musah headed the ball to Josh Sargent, who passed to Christian Pulisic. The Chelsea player then pushed the ball up the pitch, while Weah set up the Wales defense on the wing.
After four dribbles, Pulisic handed the ball to Weah, who jabbed the ball into the penalty area out of reach of sliding Welsh keeper Wayne Hennessey.
“It was a big moment for myself, my family, my teammates, the whole United States,” Weah told GMA. “I mean as a kid you know growing up and playing football you dream of scoring in a World Cup and in big moments and helping the team and I feel utterly blessed and honored to be in this position and, you know , do that, so yes, I am very happy.’
USA’s Timothy Weah celebrates scoring his side’s first goal during the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup Group B match between USA and Wales
President of Liberia George Weah whose son Timothy Weah plays for Team USA and scored a goal during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Group B match between USA and Wales
George Weah is the only African winner of the Ballon d’Or, winning the prestigious award in 1995
The goal not only impressed George, who was boxed in the stadium in Al Rayyan, but also Brazilian legend Pele, who was the last man to score against Wales in a World Cup.
“Congratulations,” the Brazilian tweeted to Timothy, who had dedicated the goal to the US and his father’s native Liberia.
“It was a beautiful goal,” Pele continued. “Keep dreaming, dreams come true.”
Weah called him ‘Papa Pele’ and responded wonderfully to the football by thanking him for the ‘inspiring message’.
“Thank you for all you have done for the world and for us young black men,” Weah wrote, adding “Grandes Abraços,” which means “big hugs” in Portuguese.
The goal not only impressed George, who was boxed in the stadium in Al Rayyan, but also Brazilian legend Pele, who was the last man to score against Wales in a World Cup. “Congratulations,” the Brazilian tweeted to Timothy, who had dedicated the goal to the US and his father’s native Liberia.
Timothy was asked about the exchange on GMA.
“It meant everything to me,” he said. “I mean, it’s a great feeling to get a message from one of the greatest to ever do it. I feel blessed to even be in the position where he, you know, felt the need to give me that kind of encouragement.
“I love him and, you know, dreams do come true, so whoever is watching this, all the little boys and girls, make sure you believe in yourself and your dreams will come true one day.”
Timothy was also asked how he grew up in Rosedale, Queens, a suburb of the New York borough.
“Small town kid, came from Rosedale, you know, it’s a very community feeling,” he said. Shoutout to everyone out there. I want to thank them for, you know, always pushing me to be the best I can be. I know that I represent a whole group of people and represent the community. I love you and can’t wait to come back home and celebrate with you.’
Back to Friday’s crucial game against England, Timothy looked optimistic.
The Lille star said the “vibes are high” among his US teammates.
“Everyone is excited,” he said. “We are ready for the big stage and the big moment. So we can’t wait.’
The US kicks off with England at 2pm EST on Friday before wrapping up Group B play against Iran on Tuesday.
Weah of the US controls the ball during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Group B match on Monday