Christian Pulisic practices, on track for USMNT group stage finale

Field Level Media|published: Mon 22nd June, 16:37 2026

June 22, 2026; Irvine, California, U.S.; Chris Richards, Christian Pulisic, Antonee Robinson and Brenden Aaronson of the U.S. during training. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Christian Pulisic practiced with the U.S. men's national team on Monday, his first team workout since straining his left calf in the World Cup-opening win over Paraguay.

Pulisic worked in the team setting and without the protective calf sleeve he wore in focused individual training sessions last week prior to the USMNT defeating Australia to move to 2-0 in Group D.

The U.S. has already done enough to advance to the knockout stage of the World Cup. Paraguay defeated Turkey 1-0 in Santa Clara on Saturday.

While no official decision on Pulisic's game status was made by the USMNT, coach Mauricio Pochettino applauded the "massive effort" he said Pulisic is making to be healed for Thursday's match with Turkey. He said after Pulisic missed the win over Australia that he "will be available for the next game."

Pulisic is "much better" according to Pochettino, who subbed the winger out at halftime of the 4-1 victory over Paraguay on June 12.

--Field Level Media

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