USA talisman Christian Pulisic has caused an injury scare for his national team after being substituted at half-time during their World Cup 2026 Group D opener against Paraguay. The AC Milan winger had delivered a sensational first-half performance at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, playing a significant part in two goals as the hosts established a commanding 3-0 lead.
Pulisic, operating effectively from the left wing, was instrumental in the USA's early dominance. His powerful run led to the opening goal, an own-goal by Damian Bobadilla, before another impressive surge and cut-back allowed Folarin Balogun to double the lead. Balogun then added a third goal before the interval, capping what former USA international Alexi Lalas described as one of the greatest first-half group stage performances in World Cup history.
However, despite the USA's comfortable position, manager Mauricio Pochettino opted to remove Pulisic at the break, bringing on Sebastian Berhalter. The lack of immediate clarity surrounding the decision fuelled speculation, with some observers suggesting it was a precautionary rest for the number 10. Yet, Fox co-commentator Stu Holden took a more pessimistic view, remarking, "That's not a tactical substitution. For your star player, something has to be up," implying a potential fitness issue.
Adding to the uncertainty, Fox also reported that Pulisic was seen making a gesture to his family and friends in the stands, indicating, "I'm OK." This gesture, while potentially reassuring, does not fully dispel the concerns about why such a key player, performing so brilliantly, would be taken off at half-time in such a crucial fixture.
The incident will undoubtedly be a worry for USA fans and coaching staff, particularly given Pulisic's importance to the squad and his history with injuries. His form in the first half demonstrated his immense value, and any extended absence would be a significant blow to the USA's aspirations in the tournament. Further updates on his condition will be eagerly awaited as the team prepares for their next fixtures.