American Soccer Legend Reacts to Unfortunate Christian Pulisic News on Friday
In its second game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the United States Men's National Team will take on Australia on Friday in a battle between the two top teams in Group D.
Coming off a massive 4-1 victory over Paraguay, the United States has instilled plenty of confidence among fans and even media pundits who seemed quite skeptical of their ceiling heading into the tournament. However, the match against Australia could prove to be more difficult than expected as the United States will be without star wingerChristian Pulisic.
Frequently referred to as "Captain America," Pulisic exited the team's first game at halftime after he strained his calf, which he had injured in a training session the week before. While the news of Pulisic being out may worry fans, Hall of Fame center back and former USMNT star Alexi Lalas took to X to assure fans he is still confident in the Stars and Stripes.
"No Pulisic," Lalas wrote. Don't care. This USMNT should still beat Australia. No excuses. Get it done. Fly Dumbo! You don't need the feather."
With Pulisic out of the starting lineup, Mauricio Pochettino announced that Ricardo Pepi will get the nod.
"We've decided to play with Ricardo (Pepi) and Flo (Balogun)," Pochettino told FOX's Jenny Taft. "Two strikers to try and change a little bit of the approach of the offensive operation. I think, like always, the game plan is to try and be effective."
Friday's game will kick off at 3:00 p.m. ET and air on FOX, Telemundo and FOX One.
Related: Unfortunate Lionel Messi News Confirmed After Argentina's World Cup Win
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This story was originally published June 19, 2026 at 12:58 PM.