Christian Pulisic has been ruled out of the USA's pivotal World Cup clash against Australia due to injury, as confirmed by coach Mauricio Pochettino. The AC Milan winger sustained a knock to his calf during the opening victory over Paraguay and will miss the crucial Group Stage match in Seattle.
Pulisic's Injury Timeline
Pulisic played a starring role in the USA's 4-1 win over Paraguay, providing two assists before being withdrawn at half-time. Post-match, Pochettino revealed the winger was nursing a calf issue. Despite following a personalised training programme, Pulisic was deemed unfit for the Australia game.
Speaking to FOX Sports before kick-off, Pochettino said: "Christian is not available. His evolution is really well, [and] today he was training in the morning in the training camp and I've seen the feelings are good. Let's hope that as soon as possible he is ready to be selected again and be part of the team."
Impact on USA's World Cup Campaign
Pulisic's absence is a blow for the USA, who can secure a spot in the knockout stages with a win against Australia. The 27-year-old was instrumental in the Paraguay victory, which saw the USA net four goals in a World Cup match for the first time in their history and claim a three-goal winning margin for the first time since 1930.
Pochettino added: "Now, we need to focus on our team and the players that are going to play. We have ahead a very important game; Australia is going to be tough, but of course, it's a bit sad because he wanted to stay and participate today."
Recovery Prospects
Pulisic was spotted wearing a compression sleeve earlier in the week. On Thursday, Pochettino indicated the player's condition was improving and suggested he could be available for the final group stage match against Turkiye on June 25: "He's evolving... we will see. If he is not available for tomorrow, he'll be available for the next game. He's doing a massive effort to be available."
Pochettino praised Pulisic's mentality: "For a player that loves their country it's a massive opportunity to play and win games. So when this happens, it's painful, but Christian is strong with a great mentality... he's doing his best to be ready as soon as possible."
The USA face a tough test against Australia, who caused a major upset by defeating Turkiye in their opening fixture. With Pulisic sidelined, other players will need to step up to secure progression in the tournament.
