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The USMNT enjoyed a charmed showing at SoFi Stadium on Saturday, cruising to a 4-1 win over Paraguay to kick off its World Cup run with a flourish.
Christian Pulisic was at the heart of much of what went right for Mauricio Pochettino's side, contributing to both of the U.S.'s first two goals. However, the skilled dribbler stayed on the sidelines during halftime, giving way after taking a knock to the lower leg.
Pulisic has yet to return to full-team training, leading some to believe his status for the USMNT's next match — a joust with Australia — could be in jeopardy.
With that, here's what we know about Pulisic's health ahead of Friday night's match.
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Is Christian Pulisic playing vs. Australia?
As of June 18, it's unclear if Pulisic will take part in the USMNT's match against Australia. The American forward has yet to take part in full team training this week, missing each of the past three sessions with an apparent calf injury.
Pulisic has taken to the pitch for individual training, spurning the wider team sessions for one-on-one work. Interestingly, Pulisic's left leg was cloaked in a sleeve when he was seen practicing.
Christian Pulisic is on the field for his individual training session. #USMNT pic.twitter.com/XwGcJPZJXB
— Ryan Tolmich (@RyanTolmich) June 17, 2026Pulisic exited the USMNT's 4-1 win at halftime, departing after taking "a bit of a kick", he told Fox Sports postgame.
"Taking a little bit of precaution today, but I'm hoping I'll be fine the next few days," Pulisic said, per ESPN.
"Just the back of my leg, my calf area. But I've had similar things before, and I'm staying positive. I don't think it's anything at all."
USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino revealed that the U.S.'s No. 10 "could not walk" after suffering the injury, per The Athletic.
“We’re hopeful the next game he’ll be available," Pochettino said.
With a point all but ensuring the USMNT gets into the knockout stages — and a win guaranteeing the Americans win the group — there's a tendency to want Pochettino to pull out a full-strength side complete with Pulisic. There exists the chance, however, that Pochettino would opt to play someone else in his role, avoiding the possibility of Pulisic re-aggravating the ailment. In other words, Pulisic's status remains up in the air for Friday's match.
MORE: USMNT player grades for the victory over Paraguay to begin the 2026 World Cup
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