Without Pulisic, US Show Their True Depth
Gregg Berhalter made a bold decision: he left out Christian Pulisic — the captain, top scorer, and symbol of the US attack — from the start of the match. Not due to a lack of confidence, but because of a minor injury after the previous game. The decision tested the squad. And the squad answered: Tim Weah exploded in the 12th minute, followed by Ricardo Pepi five minutes later. No panic. No loss of direction. Just calm, sharp, and confident play.
Weah Booms, Pepi Strikes
The US did not wait. Weston McKennie sent the ball straight into the penalty area — Weah slid, his left foot touched it, and the ball went in. One pressure lifted. One question about who would replace Pulisic dispelled. Five minutes later, Antonee Robinson's corner was met by Pepi's head — powerful, low, unblocked. That second goal was not just a number. It was proof: Pepi is now a player capable of deciding matches. Three goals in two games. The top scorer for the US in this tournament.
Australia Rises — But Not Enough
The second half was different. Graham Arnold brought on Awer Mabil and Jackson Irvine. Australia became more aggressive, faster, and bolder. Possession rose to 58%. Mabil finally scored in the 72nd minute — a defensive mistake perfectly exploited. However, after that, they managed only two more accurate shots in the remaining 18 minutes. Matt Turner in goal remained calm. Tyler Adams in midfield remained solid. The US did not waver — just slightly nervous.
Discipline, Not Dominance, Wins
The US did not dominate the match. They had 15 attempts — Australia had only 8. But six of theirs were on target. Australia? Three. The key was not the number of balls controlled, but how they used their chances. And how they closed spaces. Tyler Adams controlled the flow of the game. Weah and Brenden Aaronson disrupted Australia's right-back from the side. Malik Tillman sat on the bench — not as a substitute, but as a secret weapon if needed.
Iran Awaits — And Pulisic Might Return
With this victory, the US now lead the group with six points. Their final match against Iran — a team still in contention — is next. The US can secure first place with a draw. Christian Pulisic is expected to return. But the experience without him is not just a test — it is confirmation: the US is now a team that can win with plan A *and* plan B. If they advance to the knockout stage, the next challenge could be France. Or Argentina. Or another team from Group D. One thing is certain: they are no longer dependent on one name.
Tens of thousands of spectators at MetLife Stadium — 78,000 people — were not just a background. They were part of the strategy: pressure, rhythm, spirit. And that night, their voices echoed louder than any injury or loss.