Pulisic ruled out of USA's World Cup clash with Australia after leg injury

Christian Pulisic has been ruled out of the United States’ 2026 FIFA World Cup group-stage match against Australia on Friday, head coach Mauricio Pochettino confirmed. The AC Milan forward suffered a knock to the back of his leg during the Americans’ 4-1 opening victory over Paraguay and was substituted at half-time after completing just 45 minutes.

Pulisic took part in a modified training session on Thursday, but his status remained day-to-day heading into the Australia fixture. Pochettino moved quickly to ease concerns about the longer-term picture, saying that if Pulisic is unavailable on Friday, he will be fit for the following match.

Ricardo Pepi steps into the starting line-up in Pulisic’s absence, with Folarin Balogun and Sergiño Dest retaining their places in the front three. Balogun was the standout performer against Paraguay, netting twice, while Pulisic registered the assist on his first goal.

The stakes are significant for the United States. A win over Australia would secure their place in the round of 32, and combined with a Paraguay win or draw against Türkiye, it would also be enough to top Group D — all without their most influential attacking player.

Pulisic’s absence is a notable blow given the quality of the opposition, but Pochettino’s squad showed in the Paraguay opener that they carry genuine depth in the final third. Pepi, who has been a reliable option for the national team, will be expected to lead the line and provide a focal point for Balogun and Dest to work around.