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United States vs. Australia compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Credit: FIFA/FIFA via Getty
NEED TO KNOW
- The United States defeated Australia in their World Cup match on Friday, June 19, without the help of star player Christian Pulisic
- Pulisic was injured during the team's victory over Paraguay on Friday, June 12, but said he didn't think it was "anything at all" at the time
- The United States now advances to the knockout stage
The United States men's national team defeated Australia in their FIFA World Cup match despite not having star Christian Pulisic available.
The teams faced off at Seattle Stadium (also known as Lumen Field) on Friday, June 19, and the United States came out on top with a 2-0 victory to advance to the knockout stage.
Australia's defender, Cameron Burgess, put the United States men on top first with an own goal in the 11th minute of play. Just before halftime, Alex Freeman of the United States delivered a header to put the team up 2-0. The American men continued their strong play throughout the second half and held off Australia to finish the game at 2-0.
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USA vs. Australia in the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Credit: FIFA/FIFA via Getty (2)
The Americans were without the help of 27-year-old Pulisic after the versatile star suffered an injury in their 4-1 win over Paraguay on Friday, June 12. Pulisic exited the game and was substituted at halftime, telling reporters he had been kicked in his left calf during the match, but that he didn't think the injury would persist.
"I just got a bit of a kick first half, so I'm really hoping that it's nothing," Pulisic said, according to ESPN. "Taking a little bit of precaution today, but I'm hoping I'll be fine the next few days. Just the back of my leg, my calf area. But I've had similar things before and I'm staying positive. I don't think it's anything at all."
Mauricio Pochettino, head coach of the USMNT, confirmed Pulisic would miss Friday's match just before lineups were announced, ESPN reported. "Christian is not available," Pochettino said, according to the outlet. The coach told reporters Pulisic was "training the morning in the training camp" on Friday and added, "I think the feelings are good; I hope as soon as possible he will be ready to play again and be part of the team."
Ricardo Pepi played in Pulisic's place on Friday.
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Ricardo Pepi; Christian Pulisic
Credit: FIFA/FIFA via Getty (2)
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The USMNT had the support of retired NFL quarterback Russell Wilson and his wife, Ciara, who were seen on the broadcast taking the match in from a suite at Seattle Stadium.
Next, the United States will face Türkiye at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., on Thursday, June 25 at 10 p.m. ET.
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