Christian Pulisic reveals concerning reason he only played 45 minutes in USA’s 4-1 rout of Paraguay

Christian Pulisic played only the first half of USA’s 4-1 win against Paraguay in the opening game of their World Cup 2026 campaign. During his post-match interview, he revealed he had suffered a knock, which is why he left the match earlier than expected.

“I just got a bit of a kick in the first half, so I’m really hoping that it’s nothing. Taking a little bit of precaution today, but I’m hoping I’ll be fine the next few days,” Pulisic told reporters via FOX Sports’ Doug McIntyre.

The American soccer star and skipper completed the joint-most dribbles in the first half (three) and created the joint-most chances (two) before getting subbed off, and was a big reason why the USA went ahead within the first seven minutes. Sebastian Berhalter replaced Pulisic after halftime.

By the time Pulisic came off the pitch, the USA were already ahead by three goals, thanks to Folarin Balogun ’s brace. Paraguay pulled one goal back in the 73rd minute, courtesy of substitute Mauricio. But Giovanni Reyna put the final nail in the coffin for the Stars and Stripes with a wonderful trivela finish during stoppage time.

MORE: USMNT keys to winning opening 2026 World Cup match against Paraguay

USA head coach Mauricio Pochettino said that he subbed out Christian Pulisic during halftime as a precaution, but expects the AC Milan forward to be good to go against Australia next week.

“Pulisic took a kick in his calf, and then he started to feel tight, and we didn’t want to take any risk,” Pochettino stated. “It was difficult for him to work, but we hope that it is not a big issue and he’s ready for the next one.”

Fortunately for the USA, Pulisic will have at least six days to recover. If things don’t go according to plan, Weston McKennie will likely shoulder more playmaking duties, and Giovanni Reyna or Sebastian Berhalter could take Pulisic’s place in the starting lineup against the Socceroos.