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DON'T MISS A MOMENT OF THE WORLD CUP

United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) star Christian Pulisic has been ruled out of the upcoming FIFA World Cup fixture against Australia due to a calf injury, Mauricio Pochettino confirmed during an interview with FOX. Pulisic was substituted at halftime during the team’s commanding 4-1 victory over Paraguay. While early reports suggested he might recover in time for Friday’s encounter in Seattle, the Argentine coach has now confirmed that Ricardo Pepi will take his place in the starting lineup.

America’s top player ruled out

Speculation around Pulisic’s fitness continued throughout the week after his early substitution last Friday. Pochettino later revealed that the 27-year-old had aggravated a previous injury sustained during training before the Americans’ opening match.

“Hopefully, it’s not a major problem... hopefully, he’ll be ready for the next game,” the manager commented at that time.

Pulisic himself had also expressed optimism that the calf strain would not turn into a long-term issue.

“I’m really hoping it’s nothing serious. I just decided to be cautious today, but I’m confident I’ll be fine,” he said.

The AC Milan forward has faced several fitness challenges throughout his club campaign, featuring for only 1,609 minutes — his lowest tally since joining the Serie A club.

Changes to the starting XI

With Pulisic unavailable, Pochettino has opted for just one change in the USMNT starting lineup. Ricardo Pepi has been introduced to partner Folarin Balogun in a two-striker formation.

The backline remains consistent, with Chris Richards and Tim Ream continuing at centre-back, flanked by Antonee Robinson and Alex Freeman. The tactical role of Sergiño Dest will be one to monitor, as he operated further up the pitch as a winger opposite Pulisic during the victory over Paraguay. In midfield, Tyler Adams anchors the play alongside Weston McKennie and Malik Tillman.

Pepi-Balogun partnership

The Pepi and Balogun pairing is relatively new for the USMNT, with the duo having shared just 187 minutes on the field together prior to Friday’s fixture. They have started together only twice, neither of which came under Pochettino’s management.

However, according to Opta statistics, the USMNT has been productive with the pair leading the attack, netting five goals during those 187 minutes.

What’s next

After Friday’s contest, the United States will wrap up their group stage campaign against Turkey in Los Angeles.