Pulisic's World Cup Injury
US Forward Christian Pulisic Exits World Cup Match Against Belgium Due to Foot Injury
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Christian Pulisic, the United States' biggest star, was forced off the field during a World Cup round of 16 match against Belgium with a right foot injury, according to AP News. The injury happened in the second half when Pulisic extended for a shot and struck the boot of Belgium's captain.
Pulisic could only watch from the bench after being substituted out, Bakersfield.com reported. The injury is a blow to the US side at a critical moment in the tournament.
How the Injury Happened on the Shot
The injury came when Pulisic stretched out to extend a shot attempt, Daily Gazette reported. His foot connected with the boot of Belgium's captain instead of the ball cleanly. The contact left him unable to continue playing.
Pulisic was pulled from the game in the second half and did not return, Yahoo Sports reported. He sat on the bench for the remainder of the match, watching his teammates try to advance in the tournament.
A Star Player Yet to Score This Tournament
Pulisic came into the Belgium match without a goal in this World Cup. That drought is notable given his strong international record. He has scored 33 goals across 90 international games for the United States, according to AP News.
His absence could be a major problem for the US attack. Pulisic is the team's most dangerous forward. Losing him — even for part of a knockout game — weakens the Americans' ability to find the net.
US Faces Belgium in a High-Stakes Knockout Round
The match was played in Seattle, Yahoo Sports reported. It was a round of 16 game, meaning both teams faced elimination with a loss. There is no second chance at this stage of the World Cup.
Belgium is a strong opponent. Their captain was directly involved in the play that injured Pulisic. The US team had to adjust on the fly after losing their key forward mid-match, according to Winnipeg Free Press.
Injury Timing Raises Concern for US Going Forward
A foot injury at this point in the tournament could sideline Pulisic for future games. The US would face a quarterfinal if they beat Belgium. Losing Pulisic for that match — or longer — would be a serious setback, Hastings Tribune reported.
No update on the severity of the injury was immediately available. The US team had not confirmed whether Pulisic would be available for future rounds, according to Yakima Herald.
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