U.S. coach Pochettino eyes Australia clash amid Pulisic injury concerns
The United States enters its World Cup Group D match against Australia with momentum from a 4-1 win over Paraguay, but the availability of star forward Christian Pulisic remains uncertain.
Seattle – United States coach Mauricio Pochettino arrived at the University of Washington’s Husky Soccer Stadium on Thursday to observe the team’s preparations ahead of the Group D showdown with Australia. The squad comes off a 4-1 victory over Paraguay in Los Angeles, a result that has generated strong public support and raised expectations for a second consecutive win – something the U.S. has not achieved since the tournament’s inaugural edition in 1930.
Pochettino said the team’s confidence is high and emphasized the need to maintain the performance level shown against Paraguay.
"Our confidence and trust is there. The challenge now is to keep that level that was so high. I have no doubt we can show it again," he told reporters.
The primary uncertainty is the fitness of forward Christian Pulisic, who suffered a calf injury in the Paraguay match. The coach described Pulisic’s condition as “day-to-day” and noted that the player has been working independently on his recovery.
"He's evolving. He's much better from Friday. We'll see … if he's not available for tomorrow, he will be available for the next game," Pochettino said.
Midfielder Weston McKennie confirmed that Pulisic is eager to play but left the final decision to the medical staff. The coach said the squad is reviewing all lineup options, including possible returns for Sebastian Berhalter, Malik Tillman, Tim Weah, Gio Reyna, Brenden Aaronson or Alex Zendejas, and will decide once Pulisic’s status is confirmed.
Other players expressed optimism. Right-winger Sergiño Dest said the team remains hungry for more success, while midfielder Cristian Roldan highlighted the growing national support and the motivation to inspire the next generation. Roldan, a Seattle Sounders player, noted the significance of playing the match in the city that hosted the team’s training camp.
If the United States secures a win against Australia, it would likely guarantee a place in the knockout stage and could clinch first place in the group, depending on the outcome of the Paraguay-Turkey match later in the day.
Pochettino, who described the previous friendly with Australia as a “street game,” indicated that managing Pulisic’s workload will be a factor in his tactical approach, especially with the group’s final match against Turkey scheduled for June 25 in Los Angeles.