United States men’s national team star Christian Pulisic scored the only goal of the game against Iran on Tuesday, but suffered an injury as a result. The only goal allows the Americans to advance to the knockout round of the World Cup.
Midfielder Weston McKennie kicked off the play in the 38th minute with a beautiful long pass to Sergiño Dest. The fullback headed the ball straight at a running Pulisic inside the box. Pulisic was able to get his foot on the ball before crashing into the Iranian goalkeeper. America had the target they desperately needed.
USMNT fans sweat Christian Pulisic’s injury
However, Pulisic remained on the ground for a few minutes after the big collision. It seemed that the Chelsea playmaker took a knee from Alireza Beiranvand in an awkward area.
Pulisic managed to re-enter the game in the final minutes of the first half. However, the star was later replaced by head coach Gregg Berhalter before the start of the second period.
FOX Sports reported during the opening stages of the second half that Pulisic suffered an abdominal injury. There was no word on how serious the setback could be. Although, the fact that the attacker has been able to play a few minutes after the injury is something hopeful.
young americans arrive
The USMNT entered the match against Iran needing a win to qualify for the knockout round. Berhalter’s young team took a step forward and added the three points when he needed it most. With an average age of just 24, the US starting XI on Tuesday was the youngest in the tournament thus far.
Although they dominated the entire first half, Iran played quite well in the second half. USMNT fans surely had thoughts of the Wales game on their minds in the late stages of Tuesday’s game. The Americans, however, held the upper hand against Iran.
Berhalter’s victory means the USMNT will face the Netherlands on Saturday. The Dutch won Group A of the World Cup after beating Senegal and Qatar, and drawing with Ecuador.
PHOTO: IMAGO/Xinhua
