SouthernWorldwide.com – USMNT fans experienced a moment of alarm during their World Cup opener against Paraguay when star player Christian Pulisic did not return for the second half.
Pulisic, who plays for AC Milan, had a standout first half, contributing an assist to Folarin Balogun’s goal and being a dominant presence on the field.
However, as the team re-emerged, it became clear that Sebastian Berhalter, son of former USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter, had replaced Pulisic.
The initial announcement of the substitution did not provide a reason for the change.
During the FOX Sports broadcast, it was mentioned that Pulisic had indicated to his family in the stands that he was feeling alright.
Following the USMNT’s decisive 4-1 victory, head coach Mauricio Pochettino addressed the reason for Pulisic’s substitution. According to Tom Bogert of The Athletic, Pochettino stated that Pulisic had taken a kick to his calf, resulting in some tightness.
The decision to substitute him was a precautionary measure to avoid further issues.
Concerns among fans were amplified due to Pulisic’s recent injury history.
He had previously missed the Gold Cup to rest after a demanding season with AC Milan, playing in 50 club matches.
The subsequent season saw him battling multiple injuries.
Most recently, ESPN reported that he missed a match last month due to a lower-back problem.
Pulisic is an indispensable player for the USMNT, and his absence was felt in the second half of the match.
While Pochettino emphasized that the substitution was purely precautionary, American supporters will likely remain anxious until Pulisic is fully fit and back on the pitch.
