Christian Pulisic attempted to recover in time for the United States Men’s National Team’s second World Cup game, but a week was insufficient. After sustaining a calf injury in the World Cup opener, Pulisic barely participated in practice throughout the week. As a result, he won’t be on the field against Australia.

Manager Mauricio Pochettino confirmed this during a pregame show on FOX Sports. Pulisic had earlier provided an assist in the victory over Paraguay but was substituted at halftime due to his calf injury.

Pochettino frequently faced inquiries about Pulisic’s fitness for the upcoming game against Australia. He chose to remain reticent on the subject, which seems understandable now.

On Thursday, Pochettino mentioned that Pulisic was improving but would not participate in the game against Australia. He confirmed that Pulisic might be ready for the final group stage match against Turkey next week. A planned meeting between Pulisic, the medical staff, and Pochettino occurred on Thursday night, yet it seems it did not yield optimistic results.

Pochettino acknowledged Pulisic’s efforts and desire to be on the field with his teammates. During Thursday’s practice, Pulisic engaged in a modified training session, similar to his activities throughout the week, and didn’t join the main team activities that were accessible to the media.

In the previous match against Paraguay, Sebastian Berhalter replaced Pulisic at halftime. Additionally, starting midfielder Malik Tillman stepped up significantly in Pulisic’s absence.

Australia’s victory over Türkiye in their World Cup opener means the upcoming match between the U.S. and Australia will decide the leader of Group D. A win could lead to the U.S. advancing to the knockout round, marking consecutive victories in the tournament for the first time since the inaugural World Cup.

Without Pulisic, the match presents additional challenges for the U.S. team as they aim for success in the tournament.