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Christian Pulisic ruled out for USMNT's World Cup match against Australia
Yahoo Sports • • general
Key Points:
- Christian Pulisic was sidelined for the U.S. World Cup match against Australia due to a calf injury, following his halftime exit in the previous game and limited training participation.
- Coach Mauricio Pochettino confirmed Pulisic's unavailability but expressed optimism for his recovery and future involvement with the team.
- Pulisic had aggravated a prior injury sustained during training, leading U.S. officials to avoid risking further damage that could end his World Cup campaign.
- In Pulisic's absence, Pochettino surprisingly started striker Ricardo Pepi against Australia, deviating from his usual preference for Folarin Balogun as the lone forward.
- Pepi made his World Cup debut by replacing Balogun in the 72nd minute, while other potential lineup changes included wingers Tim Weah or Alex Zendejas and midfielders Sebastian Berhalter or Gio Reyna.
