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USA v Paraguay: Group D - FIFA World Cup 2026Getty Images Sport

'I'm really hoping that it's nothing' - USMNT star Christian Pulisic reveals first-half kick led to early exit


  • USA v Paraguay: Group D - FIFA World Cup 2026Getty Images Sport

    'I'm hoping I'll be fine.'

    Pulisic stressed his exit after 45 minutes of action was largely due to precaution.

    "Took a bit of a kick," Pulisic said following the game. "So I'm really hoping that it's nothing, taking a little bit of precautions today, but I'm hoping I'll be fine."

    Pulisic said the knock happened to his left leg. Prior to his substitution, the 27-year-old was sharp in the first half, with his silky dribble past two defenders ultimately setting up the U.S.'s opener - an own goal by Damián Bobadilla in the seventh minute.



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    Pochettino discusses injury

    USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino acknowledged Pulisic also had a knock that he got in training prior to the match and pulled the forward due to managing the injury.

    "He received a knock two days before today in a training session," Pochettino said. " I hope it's not a big issue, but when finishing the first half, when it [the injury] starts to get cold, you cannot work."

    Still, the Argentine hopes his star will be back in action in a week's time against Australia.

    "Hopefully, it's not a big issue...hopefully, the next game he will be available."


  • Folarin Balogun USMNT 2026Getty/GOAL

    USMNT impress in opener

    Pulisic's assist in the opener made him the all-time record holder in that stat in the World Cup, as the American now sits on three. Folarin Balogun, who had a brace, became the first USMNT player to score two goals in a World Cup game since 1930.

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  • What's next for the USMNT

    The USMNT travel to Seattle to face Australia next Friday at 3 p.m. ET.


    Ryan Tolmich contributed reporting from Inglewood, Calif.