Pulisic starts for USA against Belgium in World Cup round of 16 in Seattle

Christian Pulisic will start for the United States against Belgium in the World Cup round of 16 in Seattle on Monday, ending uncertainty over the AC Milan forward’s fitness after he dealt with a calf injury during the group stage.

Pulisic was limited in the Americans’ opening group-stage matches but briefly returned to the pitch in the group-stage finale, a defeat to Türkiye. He then earned a starting berth in USA’s round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the 27-year-old now carries the hopes of a nation into what is arguably the biggest game in USMNT history. The Americans have not reached a World Cup quarterfinal since 2002.

Also named in the starting lineup is Folarin Balogun, USA’s leading scorer at this tournament. Balogun had been suspended for one match after receiving a red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina, but FIFA reversed that decision in a controversial ruling, clearing him to face Belgium.

A place in the quarterfinals is at stake for both sides, with the winner advancing to the last eight of the tournament.