‘We have no words’ – Paraguay boss has to comfort player in emotional press conference
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Pochettino’s side kicked off their World Cup in style, netting three goals in a whirlwind first half, before a sublime fourth by Gio Reyna in stoppage time secured a 4-1 win for the co-hosts.
It was the USA’s joint-biggest win at a World Cup – matching the 3-0 victories against Paraguay and Belgium recorded in the inaugural 1930 tournament, when they finished third.
The only dampener to the occasion was Pulisic’s withdrawal at the break after a dazzling first half in which the AC Milan forward helped force an own goal for his side’s first and set up Folarin Balogun for the team’s second.
However, both player and manager indicated that the substitution was precautionary rather than a serious concern.
“He received a kick two days before today in a training session,” Pochettino explained in his post-match press conference.
“I hope it’s not a big issue, but when [Pulisic] finished the first half, when he started to get cold, he couldn’t walk.
“I hope that it’s not a bigger issue. That was so rushed, because it was at the last minute that we needed to change and make the substitution.
“But now I think it is better, and I hope for the next game [he] will be available.”
Pulisic, meanwhile, told reporters: “I just got a bit of a kick in the first half, so I’m really hoping that it’s nothing.
“I’m taking a little bit of precaution today, but I’m hoping I’ll be fine the next few days.
Highlights: Pulisic goal the difference as Milan grind out derby victory
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“Just the back of my leg, my calf area. But I’ve had similar things before, and I’m staying positive. I don’t think it’s anything at all.”
In five World Cup appearances, he has now registered three assists – one more than five-time Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo.
Pulisic’s calf will be closely monitored in the next week ahead of the USA’s second group game against Australia on June 19 in Seattle.
They then round off Group D with a game against Turkey in Los Angeles on June 25.
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