Christian Pulisic Not Available For USA’s World Cup Match vs. Australia

by Margaret June 19, 2026

June 19, 2026 6 views

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The United States men's national team will start its second 2026 FIFA World Cup group-stage match against Australia — its biggest test of the tournament so far — with its star forward, Christian Pulisic, not being available, Mauricio Pochettino told FOX Sports' Jenny Taft on Friday.

Pulisic played 45 minutes in the Americans’ 4-1 World Cup opening victory vs. Paraguay before he was subbed off at halftime after getting kicked in the back of his leg. He participated in a "modified training" session on Thursday, but his status was "day-to-day" leading into Friday's match.

Pulisic's availability is not expected to be impacted beyond Friday's match, with head coach Pochettino saying "if he’s not available for [Friday, he] will be available for the next game" on Thursday. The U.S. will advance to the round of 32 with a win over Australia. They also can win Group D with a win against Australia on Friday and a Paraguay win or draw against Türkiye.

Ricardo Pepi will start in place of Pulisic, with Folarin Balogun and Sergiño Dest resuming their spots in the United States' front three. Balogun scored two goals in the United States' World Cup opener, and Pulisic was credited with the assist on his first goal.

The United States and Australia will kick off at 3 p.m. ET (FOX/FOX One).