Christian Pulisic started on the bench during the USA’s World Cup group stage finale against Turkey, but entered the game in the 57th minute with the score tied at 2-2. He replaced Tim Weah and received a standing ovation from the SoFi Stadium crowd in Los Angeles.
The AC Milan forward had been dealing with a calf injury he sustained during the USA’s opening win against Paraguay. Pulisic was on the sidelines against Australia and returned to full training this week.
But despite his readiness to play, there were doubts that Pulisic would play against Turkey, as head coach Mauricio Pochettino may not be keen on risking another injury in a dead rubber match.
In the end, the USA lost 3-2, courtesy of a late goal from Kaan Ayhan. This result is inconsequential for the Stars and Stripes, as they’re already guaranteed to finish on top of Group D.
MORE:How to live stream USA vs Turkey: FIFA World Cup 2026, TV channel
Christian Pulisic makes instant impact as a substitute for USA against Turkey
Christian Pulisic reminded the fans in Los Angeles how invaluable he is to the USA in this World Cup. When he came off the bench near the hour mark, the AC Milan star created two chances within five minutes, his second of which tested goalkeeper Ugurcan Çakir, and Pulisic also launched a left-footed curler wide from 20 yards out.
The Stars and Stripes were off to a brisk start, as Auston Trusty struck in the third minute before Arda Guler scored for the Crescent Stars seven minutes later. Baris Alper Yilmaz and Sebastian Berhalter then exchanged goals either side of halftime.
In the final play of the match, Guler nutmegged Pulisic to help set up Kaan Ayhan’s winner during stoppage time to deny the USA an undefeated Group D campaign in the World Cup.
The USA will face Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32. Australia will join them in the Top 2 to face the Group G runners-up following their goalless draw against Paraguay.
