SEATTLE — The question of whether Christian Pulisic will take the field when the United States faces Australia in a pivotal Group D World Cup match in Seattle on Friday remains up in the air, according to head coach Mauricio Pochettino.
Pulisic was a standout performer in the U.S. team’s dominant 4-1 opening victory over Paraguay last week, but he was forced off the pitch at halftime due to a calf injury. Since then, he has been working through individual training sessions rather than practicing with the full squad.
Pochettino indicated he would speak with team medical personnel Thursday evening before determining whether the forward would be cleared to play.
“If he’s not available for tomorrow, he will be available for the next game. He’s doing a massive effort,” the Argentine coach told reporters.
Pochettino also expressed confidence in the player’s resolve, saying, “Christian is strong and with a great mentality and is doing a fantastic effort to try to be ready as soon as possible.”
Heading into Friday’s match, both the U.S. and Australia sit level at the top of Group D. Australia earned their spot there with a surprising 2-0 victory over Turkey. Whichever team wins Friday’s contest will be in a strong position to secure a favorable path through the knockout stage.
While the U.S. team’s convincing dismantling of Paraguay has energized fans, Pochettino cautioned against underestimating the Australians.
“They are a very strong team, really believing in what they are doing,” he said, stressing that the Americans must match that level of determination to come out on top.
Also on Friday, Turkey and Paraguay are scheduled to meet at 8 p.m. local time in San Francisco.
