There was a delay to the closing stages of the World Cup group game between USA and Australia as referee Felix Zwayer received treatment on the pitch

The World Cup game between USA and Australia was delayed after the referee went down with cramp. Play was stopped in the closing stages of the match as official Felix Zwayer received treatment.

After he went down, he had help from his assistant referee to stretch out his leg. Fourth official Katia Garcia then came onto the pitch and gave him what appeared to be some sort of energy drink.

The delay lasted a couple of minutes. The German referee was able to continue and finish the match, and received a big cheer from the mainly American crowd as he signalled that he could carry on.

Speaking on BBC Sport, co-commentator Danny Murphy said: “We’ve done a lot of tournaments, and we’ve been to a lot of games, I’m not sure I’ve seen a referee with cramp before.”

Reacting to the incident on BBC Sport after the game, Wayne Rooney said while laughing: “They’re going to start bringing hydration breaks in for the referees, it’s embarrassing “

The game saw USA come out as comfortable 2-0 winners over Australia. An own goal from Cameron Burgess put the host nation ahead, before Alex Freeman doubled their lead, with the goal awarded after a VAR check.

The win is the USA’s second in as many games in the group stage, following the 4-1 win over Paraguay in the group opener. Australia, meanwhile, will have to get something from their final game against Paraguay to try and seal their place in the knockout stage, after beating Turkey in their opener.

Speaking after the game, USA boss Mauricio Pochettino said: “I think it was a fantastic game again, a very good first half, I think we dominate the game against a very tough team.

“When the draw happened in December I thought this was really difficult.”

There will be more to follow on this breaking news story and Mirror Sport will bring you the very latest updates, pictures and video as soon as possible. Please check back regularly for updates on this developing story. Follow us on Google News, Flipboard, Apple News, Twitter, Facebook or visit The Mirror homepage.