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U.S. faces Australia in World Cup amid concerns for Pulisic's health

NPR • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 19, 2026, 9:00 AM

Last updated Jun 19, 2026

U.S. faces Australia in World Cup amid concerns for Pulisic's health

Summary

The U.S. men's national soccer team is preparing to compete against Australia in the World Cup on Friday. Star player Christian Pulisic left the previous match against Paraguay at halftime due to a calf injury and has not trained since. His absence could significantly affect the U.S. attack as they aim for a strong performance in the tournament.

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By the Numbers

•Pulisic was key in recent win over Paraguay.
•He left that match with a calf injury.
•Pulisic has not trained with the team since.
•The match against Australia is on Friday.

Latest Updates

9:00 AMNPR — The U.S. may face Australia in the World Cup without star Christian Pulisic - NPR

What they're saying

"
The left winger Pulisic was key to the Americans' fluid and effective attack in last week's win over Paraguay. But he was kicked in the calf, left at halftime, and hasn't trained with the team since.
— NPRby Becky Sullivan

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