Science behind Malik Tillman’s free kick goal shows it's even more impressive than you might think

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The United States was clinging to a one-goal lead and down a man when Malik Tillman stood over a late free kick on Wednesday night against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Soon enough, the USMNT was running on to a World Cup Round of 16 matchup with Belgium, because Tillman drained the free kick for a goal that helped the U.S. breathe just a little bit easier en route to victory.

The free kick itself was quite magical.

Watching it live, it was clear that Tillman had controlled the ball well to go over the wall and also beat the goalkeeper.

Upon further review, it's even more impressive.

A scientific breakdown on social media shows just how tough it really was for Tillman to get the ball up over the wall, then back down below the crossbar, while also hooking it enough to beat the goalie:

#USMNT midfielder Malik Tillman may have just scored one of the most difficult free kicks in U.S. World Cup history.

Somebody give this man an honorary doctorate in physics.

Let’s break down the sport’s science ⚽️🔬⚖️ pic.twitter.com/CUi87qbKsm

— MEDspiration (@MEDspirationNFP) July 2, 2026

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The slow motion of how narrowly the ball made it over the top of the wall is incredible.

The follow through is amazing, too, the way Tillman goes side-to-side to create the movement.

It's also clear how tough this was from a reaction time perspective for the keeper.

Tillman's free kick was certainly art.

It was also scientifically beautiful.