Christian Pulisic has revealed that a first-half knock forced him to come off early during the United States Men’s National Team’s (USMNT) 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their World Cup opener on home soil. Despite the star winger’s withdrawal at half-time, Mauricio Pochettino’s men went on to extend their lead and recorded their highest-ever goal tally in a World Cup match.
“I’m hoping I’ll be fine,” Pulisic said after the match, explaining that his substitution was mainly a precautionary measure.
“Took a bit of a kick,” the 27-year-old winger said. “So I’m really hoping that it’s nothing serious. We were just being cautious today, but I’m hopeful I’ll be fine.”
Pulisic confirmed the knock was to his left leg. Before being substituted, he had been in excellent form during the first half, producing a dazzling dribble past two defenders that led to the team’s opening goal — an own goal by Damián Bobadilla in the seventh minute.
Pochettino on managing the injury
USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino noted that Pulisic had already taken a knock during training before the match and was taken off as a precaution to manage the issue.
“He got a knock two days ago during a training session,” said Pochettino. “I hope it’s nothing serious, but when the first half ended and the injury started to stiffen up, he couldn’t continue.”
The Argentine manager expressed confidence that his key forward would return soon, possibly in time for the next match against Australia.
“Hopefully, it’s not a big issue... hopefully, he’ll be available for the next game,” Pochettino added.
USMNT shine in opening match
Pulisic’s assist in the opener also made history, making him the all-time leader in assists for the U.S. at the World Cup, with three to his name. Meanwhile, Folarin Balogun netted twice, becoming the first USMNT player since 1930 to score a brace in a World Cup match.
Next up for the USMNT
The team will now travel to Seattle, where they are set to face Australia next Friday at 3 p.m. ET.
Reporting by Ryan Tolmich from Inglewood, California.
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