The United States national team coach, Mauricio Pochettino, reported on the injury of Christian Pulisic, AC Milan player, during the match against Australia. Pulisic suffered a hamstring injury and had to be substituted in the 28th minute of the match, which ended with a 2-1 victory for the United States. Pochettino explained that Pulisic felt discomfort in his hamstring and would be evaluated in Italy. The coach suggested that the change in climate between Austin and Denver could have influenced the injury.
Despite Pulisic’s absence, the United States achieved victory. Pochettino highlighted the performances of Haji Wright and Cristian Roldan. Wright scored two goals, both assisted by Roldan, including the decisive goal after a quick set piece. Wright took advantage of the opportunity after being included in the starting eleven in place of Folarin Balogun.I think it’s a significant risk. I don’t want to say it’s because of Christian or anything, but I think it was hard for the player.
Mauricio Pochettino
Wright has shown great performance both in his club and with the national team, leading the English championship with eight goals for Coventry City. He attributes his good moment to the absence of injuries. Pochettino praised Roldan, who has established himself in the fight for a place in the squad for the World Cup. The coach highlighted his confidence and competitiveness.I think it’s important to say: “I am here and I want to play. I want to be part of the team”.
Mauricio Pochettino
Australian defender Jason Geria, who received a yellow card for a foul on Pulisic, acknowledged the intensity of the match, but denied that the objective was to specifically target the American player. The victory marked the first time in the Pochettino era that the United States came back from a losing score, after Jordan Bos’s initial goal for Australia in the 19th minute.We need a player with confidence, with some belief, with a bit of romanticism, with a bit of competitiveness. And perhaps Cristian Roldan is the example of, if you want to build your perfect player, he has a bit of everything.
Mauricio Pochettino
It’s no coincidence to have this ability to believe, to say: ‘We need to trust ourselves that it is in our mind, in our brain, in our heart, it is in our blood’.
Mauricio Pochettino
