United States midfielder Christian Pulisic was substituted at half-time during Saturday's 4-1 World Cup Group D victory over Paraguay at MetLife Stadium after suffering a calf muscle spasm. The AC Milan player had provided an assist in the opening 45 minutes before discomfort forced his withdrawal.
USA manager Mauricio Pochettino explained the decision: "He received a painful blow to his calf muscle, experiencing a spasm at the end of the first half. We did not want to take any risks given his difficulty walking. I hope it is not very serious and that he will be ready for the next match."
Folarin Balogun scored twice and Giovanni Reyna added a third goal for the hosts, while Mauricio replied for Paraguay. USA topped Group D and will face Australia on June 19. The team's medical assessment of Pulisic's recovery will be critical over the coming days.
Pulisic's injury status will impact betting markets on USA's group progression and tournament knockout prospects, which depend on the team's attacking firepower. Extended absence for the AC Milan playmaker would likely lengthen odds against USA advancing from their group.
→ Match stats and preview on ScanGoal