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The AC Milan star is the mascot for the USA, and his form is crucial to the team’s deep run.
Updated on 13 Jun 2026
United States star Christian Pulisic played down his concerns after being substituted at halftime FIFA World Cup cohost’ 4-1 opening victory Paraguay in Los Angeles on Friday.
The 27-year-old told reporters at SoFi Stadium that his replacement was only for self-defense.
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“I got a little bit in the first half, so I hope it’s nothing. A little careful today. But I hope I’ll be better in the next few days,” said Pulisic.
AC Milan player that is Team USA‘s charm, taking on the weight of the world’s expectations as they try to make history and make the most of the World Cup, their first in 32 years.
Why was Pulisic sent off?
Pulisic was a constant threat in the a the first half is moreproviding support and helping create Paraguay’s goal with a brilliant one-two with Weston McKennie.
But he was taken off at half-time, and later told reporters that he had knocked “the back of my leg”.
“My (left) calf position. But I’ve had things like this before … and I’m still hopeful.
Coach Mauricio Pochettino also said the player was brought in because “we didn’t want to risk anything.”
The United States hope that Pulisic is right, with their next game against Australia on Friday in Seattle, and the final group game against Turkiye in Los Angeles on June 25.
“A wonderful start, but there’s a lot we have to do,” Pulisic said.
The emphatic victory moved the US to the top of Group D with three points, while Paraguay are bottom. The other two teams in the group, Australia and Turkey, will meet later on Saturday.
The top two teams from each of the 12 groups, along with the 8 third-best teams, will continue in the knockout stage, which begins with the round of 32.
You can follow Al Jazeera’s dedicated content FIFA World Cup 2026 a page with the latest news, match updates and commentary, as well as know the standings of the team, real-time game results and schedules.
