The United States dominated in the opening match of group play in the 2026 World Cup, but a first-half injury to star Christian Pulisic put a damper on the proceedings. All week, the midfielder’s status for Friday’s game against Australia has been a topic of contention. Now, there’s a clear update on whether he will play today.
Pulisic has officially been ruled out of the USMNT lineup for this afternoon’s game against Australia due to his calf injury, per manager Maruicio Pochettino.
Ricardo Pepi will start in Pulisic’s place today.
The star midfielder was not able to fully work his way back to play in his team’s second match of Group D. However, it’s not all bad news for the USA squad. Pochettino did say on Thursday that “If he (Pulisic) is not available for tomorrow, he will be available for the next game.”
That should spell a fairly speedy recovery for the AC Milan talent, who was quite good in the opening match of the World Cup. While he subbed off at halftime, he made a clear impact in the first half for the USMNT as they went on to crush Paraguay 4-1.
For Friday’s game against Australia, the United States is a -155 favorite to win on the Moneyline via DraftKings Sportsbook’s odds.
Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET in Seattle, Washington.
Stay tuned to DK Network for live updates on his injury status.
