Pulisic ruled out vs Australia: Pepi starts as USMNT face biggest World Cup test

Christian Pulisic will not feature in the United States’ World Cup clash against Australia on Friday in Seattle. The AC Milan star was substituted at half-time during the USMNT’s dominant 4-1 win over Paraguay with a calf injury, and head coach Mauricio Pochettino confirmed the news in an interview with FOX Sports — naming Ricardo Pepi as his replacement starter for the crucial group-stage encounter.

Pulisic’s calf scare turns into confirmed absence

Pulisic looked sharp in the first half against Paraguay, contributing to the commanding 4-1 victory before being withdrawn at the break. Initial reports suggested the injury might not be serious enough to keep him out, but Pochettino ended that speculation swiftly with a direct statement to FOX Sports: Pepi starts, Pulisic does not.

The 25-year-old had been one of the tournament’s standout performers, and his absence represents a significant blow to American hopes of progressing deep into the knockout rounds. Pochettino will need to reorganise his attack around Pepi’s more direct qualities, relying on the midfield to create the chances that Pulisic would previously generate himself.

Ricardo Pepi called upon to fill the void in attack

Ricardo Pepi is a different kind of striker to the man he replaces. Where Pulisic drifts wide, creates space and beats defenders one-on-one, Pepi is a traditional number nine — physical, strong in the air and a reliable finisher when given the right service. The burden of providing that service falls entirely on the USA’s midfield against an Australia side fighting for their own knockout ambitions.

Pepi has steadily built his international profile and impressed during spells in European football, but there is no escaping the scale of expectation now placed on his shoulders. Friday’s clash in Seattle promises to be his biggest test yet at international level, and how he responds could define the USA’s tournament.

What Pulisic’s absence means for England’s potential World Cup path

For England, who have been monitoring developments in the American group with considerable interest, the news of Pulisic’s injury could prove significant. A potential last-16 or quarter-final meeting with the United States has long been identified as one of the more testing knockout ties, and the absence of the USMNT’s most dangerous attacker shifts that equation meaningfully in the Three Lions’ favour.

Tuchel’s side should resist any temptation to underestimate a Pochettino-managed team regardless of individual absences, however. The Argentine has a proven record of building compact, motivated squads capable of causing upsets on the biggest stages. England would still face a stern challenge — but the path through looks noticeably clearer without Pulisic in the picture.

FAQ