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Pepi Starts as Pulisic Out with Calf Injury

6/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Coach Mauricio Pochettino confirmed Ricardo Pepi will start for the United States after captain Christian Pulisic was ruled out.
Pulisic missed the group match against Australia because a left calf injury, sustained when a Paraguayan player kicked him during the 4-1 win over Paraguay, forced him out at halftime.
Since the injury he has done only individual gym work and brief ball drills while wearing a protective sleeve.

History

Historical Context

In the 1994 FIFA World Cup, the United States advanced to the knockout stage after a 2-1 group-stage victory over Colombia, joining fifteen other teams on July 2, 1994. The tournament exposed the U.S. team's limited roster depth, a concern that resurfaced in 2024 as injuries again forced lineup changes, prompting U.S. Soccer to prioritize broader talent development.

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Story summary

Coach Mauricio Pochettino confirmed Ricardo Pepi will start for the United States after captain Christian Pulisic was ruled out.
Pulisic missed the group match against Australia because a left calf injury, sustained when a Paraguayan player kicked him during the 4-1 win over Paraguay, forced him out at halftime.
Since the injury he has done only individual gym work and brief ball drills while wearing a protective sleeve.

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