Copy linkFacebookXPinterestEmailShare this article 0Join the conversationFollow usAdd us as a preferred source on GoogleNewsletterSubscribe to our newsletterChristian Pulisic is the star name in the United States of America squad - but they may have to find a way to win without him when they take on Australia on Friday.Kick-off in the Group D clash at Lumen Field in Seattle is set for noon local time (8pm UK time).Both the United States and Australia will be looking to build on winning starts after seeing off Paraguay and Turkiye respectively in their opening games.Play our FREE match predictor and win �1kWhat happened to PulisicMauricio Pochettino will have been concerned to see Pulisic go off at the break in his side's 4-1 win, however.Pulisic had been influential in helping his side blow the Paraguay away in a dominant first half, claiming the assist for Folarin Balogun's first goal. You may like How to watch Christian Pulisic at the 2026 FIFA World Cup United States vs Australia prediction as clash of styles sets stage for intriguing encounter USMNT star Christian Pulisic tasked with sink-or-swim 2026 World Cup after disparate domestic campaign Pulisic has trained in the days leading up to the United States' meeting with Australia, but only in a limited individual capacity.The Milan forward was seen training way from his colleagues with members of the US medical team during a session held on Wednesday.Get FourFourTwo NewsletterThe best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.Pochettino was unable to confirm at his Thursday press conference whether or not Pulisic would be fit to play a part against the Socceroos.He said: "Hes evolving. Hes much better from Friday. We will see. If he is not available for tomorrow, he will be available for the next game [against Turkiye next Friday]."Pochettino went on: "When this type of thing happens, always its painful. Christian is strong and with a great mentality."Hes doing a fantastic effort to try and be ready as soon as possible."Pennsylvania-born Pulisic has 87 international caps to his name, scoring 33 goals.TOPICSUnited StatesAustraliaWorld CupWorld Cup 2026Steven ChickenSocial Links NavigationSteven Chicken has been working as a football writer since 2009, taking in stints with Football365 and the Huddersfield Examiner. Steven still covers Huddersfield Town home and away for his own publication,WeAreTerriers.com. Steven is a two-time nominee for Regional Journalist of the Year at the prestigious British Sports Journalism Awards, making the shortlist in 2020 and 2023.
