Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Pulisic suffers microfracture in 4-1 loss to Belgium, out weeks.

7/12/2026

33 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Christian Pulisic fractured his right leg, sustaining a microfracture, during the United States’ 4-1 round-of-16 loss to Belgium in Seattle.
He will miss several weeks.
The U.S. Soccer Federation released the diagnosis after an X-ray and MRI on Tuesday, July 9, 2026.
Former stars Landon Donovan and Carli Lloyd said the team’s effort and Pulisic’s attitude were disappointing.

History

Historical Context

The United States men’s national team debuted at the inaugural 1930 World Cup, finishing third – the best result for a non-European or South-American side. After a 40-year gap, the US returned in 1990 and reached every tournament until missing 2018, then qualified for 2022 and will co-host the expanded 48-team 2026 edition. These cycles of qualification and hosting shape current expectations.

1 of 2

Story summary

Christian Pulisic fractured his right leg, sustaining a microfracture, during the United States’ 4-1 round-of-16 loss to Belgium in Seattle.
He will miss several weeks.
The U.S. Soccer Federation released the diagnosis after an X-ray and MRI on Tuesday, July 9, 2026.
Former stars Landon Donovan and Carli Lloyd said the team’s effort and Pulisic’s attitude were disappointing.

1 / 2