Here is the latest update from the 2026 FIFA World Cup as of 2026-06-26 02:14:00.
INGLEWOOD, Calif. — Christian Pulisic started on the bench for the United States men’s national team during their group-stage finale against Türkiye. The lineup was released just over 75 minutes before kickoff, with Pulisic listed as a substitute.
Brenden Aaronson took over Pulisic’s usual position on the left wing, while only Weston McKennie and Ricardo Pepi maintained their places in the squad from the previous match against Australia. A total of nine changes were made compared to the team that won 2-0 against Australia, clinching the top position in Group D.
One significant alteration was in goal, where Matt Turner replaced Matthew Freese, who had started the first two matches for the U.S. Pulisic has been dealing with a left calf injury since June 10. He attempted to play through the pain in a subsequent match against Paraguay but was limited to just 45 minutes when he was kicked in the same area.
The winger missed the Americans’ second group stage match against Australia. However, he returned to full training this week. “I’m feeling good. I joined the team the last couple days, and I’m hoping to play a part in [Thursday] for sure,” he told reporters, although he admitted he was “probably not ready” to play a full 90 minutes.
Initially, it was believed that Pulisic would not miss much time due to the injury. As it dragged on, he expressed the emotional challenges of watching from the sidelines. “It was a different set of emotions for sure, not being able to play, but I enjoyed just being around the team,” he stated. “I wanted to be there and still living that World Cup dream.” Pulisic praised his teammates for how they navigated the situation, emphasizing his pride in the group.
U.S. manager Mauricio Pochettino opted to hold out midfielder Tyler Adams, forward Folarin Balogun, center back Chris Richards, and left back Antonee Robinson due to their yellow card status, which could result in a suspension if they received another card against Türkiye. Midfielder Cristian Roldan, who had a muscle strain, was excluded from the squad entirely.
Pulisic expressed confidence in his teammates: “I think everyone on this team is ready to step up. We’re going to support and push everyone the same way, regardless of who gets the opportunity tomorrow.” The squad is set to face Bosnia-Herzegovina in the round of 32 in Santa Clara, California, on July 1, as they look ahead to the FIFA World Cup 2026.
FAQs
Why was Pulisic on the bench?
Pulisic is recovering from a left calf injury and was not fully fit to play a full match.
Who replaced Pulisic in the lineup?
Brenden Aaronson took over Pulisic’s usual left wing position for the match against Türkiye.
Key Facts
- Category:
- Source: www.espn.com – SOCCER
- Published: 2026-06-26 02:14:00
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Tags: #Pulisic #starts #bench #U.S #Turner #goal #group #finale
Tags: #Pulisic #starts #bench #U.S #Turner #goal #group #finale
