Without Pulisic, USMNT Shows Depth
Christian Pulisic did not play — not due to a serious injury, but as a precaution after a hamstring strain in the final training session. It wasn't just the absence of the captain. It was the loss of the primary chance creator, the scorer of two goals and provider of one assist in the previous two matches. But the USMNT did not falter.
Giovanni Reyna came in as a substitute on the left wing — and immediately changed the rhythm. In the 27th minute, Sergiño Dest's sharp cross was met by Reyna's firm header, which confused Andrew Redmayne. The goal wasn't just the opener. It released the early pressure from Australia, who had been attacking relentlessly since the first minute.
Without Pulisic, the United States played more calmly. Not slower — more controlled. Weston McKennie and Yunus Musah dictated the tempo from midfield, forcing quick ball transitions into dangerous areas. There was no panic. No over-ambitious attempts. Just discipline, and growing confidence with every minute.
Balogun Extends Lead, Australia Remains Hopeful
Folarin Balogun extended the lead in the 54th minute. Receiving a clever pass from Tim Weah outside the penalty box, he unleashed a powerful shot — Redmayne reacted too late. It was Balogun's third goal of the tournament. It also proved that the USMNT doesn't rely on a single star.
Australia fought back. Mitchell Duke sneaked between two defenders, meeting Mathew Leckie's cross with a neat touch — Matt Turner couldn't stop it. The score became 2-1 in the 72nd minute. The stadium atmosphere shifted. Australia pressed hard. Three dangerous attempts late in the second half — all thwarted by Tim Ream and Chris Richards. Another effort in injury time was perfectly blocked.
Group Standings: A Solidifying Win, a Pressing Defeat
The United States now leads Group B with six points — one more than England, who won against Iran. Australia remains third with three points. They still have a chance to reach the Round of 16, but only if they secure a big win against Denmark *and* other results go their way.
For the USMNT, this wasn't just about qualification. It was a testament to the squad's depth. Reyna and Balogun are not temporary replacements — they are players ready to step up in crucial moments. And when Pulisic returns, it won't be to replace anyone. But to add a new dimension.
Round of 16 Awaits — and Pulisic is Almost Ready
The knockout stage match is scheduled for July 4. Pulisic is expected to be fully recovered and ready to play. Coach Gregg Berhalter has not yet announced the lineup, but it certainly won't be a simple matter of 'bring Pulisic back, bring back the old formation'. It's more nuanced: how to integrate Reyna's speed, Balogun's sharpness, and Pulisic's experience into a more fluid system.
Australia? They need to win — and win big. They have the potential to create chances. But their finishing remains a question mark. Two shots on target in 90 minutes. That's not the statistic of a team destined for the next round.
The 2026 World Cup has shown: the USMNT is not just a participant. They won without their captain. And when the captain returns, they won't just be strong — they'll be dangerous.