COMMERCE CITY, Colo. — The U.S. men’s national team (USMNT) overcame a first-half deficit to beat Australia 2-1 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, but the match was overshadowed by an injury to star attacker Christian Pulisic.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, Pulisic’s fitness remains crucial. The Chelsea forward, sidelined in parts of the match, left early with a hamstring injury and will return to AC Milan for evaluation.

Wright Steps Up

Haji Wright, in his first U.S. start in 13 months, scored both goals to secure the comeback victory. Wright tied the match in the 33rd minute before curling a 15-yard strike past Australia’s Cameron Burgess in the 51st minute for the winner. Both goals were assisted by Cristian Roldan, who showcased his versatility and leadership from midfield.

“I have to continue to perform,” Wright said. “If I just shut off now, chances for the World Cup roster will probably diminish, but I’m happy this happened and I’m going to build off it.”

Manager Mauricio Pochettino praised Wright’s performance, noting that it positions him strongly for World Cup selection.

Pulisic’s Injury

Pulisic had already struggled during a 1-1 draw with Ecuador earlier in the international window due to an ankle issue. Against Australia, he was forced off after absorbing two hard challenges within 11 minutes. Diego Luna replaced him, and the team quickly adapted to secure the win.

Pochettino emphasized the need for Pulisic in the squad:

“It’s clear we need a player like him on the field if we want to make a significant run at the World Cup.”

Key Moments

• 19th minute: Australia took the lead through Jordan Bos, taking advantage of a defensive lapse.
• 33rd minute: Wright equalized after a clever pass from Roldan and combination play with Weston McKennie.
• 51st minute: Wright struck again after a quick restart from Roldan, curling into the far corner for his seventh international goal.

USMNT Moving Forward

The victory marked the first time since Pochettino’s tenure began that the team came back from a deficit to win. Goalkeeper Matt Freese highlighted the importance of results as the team ramps up World Cup preparations.

The USMNT will next face Paraguay on 15 November in Chester, Pennsylvania, and Uruguay on 18 November in Tampa, Florida, as they continue preparing for the 2026 tournament.

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Key Takeaways

• USMNT beat Australia 2-1 despite Pulisic leaving with a hamstring injury.
• Haji Wright scored twice and is emerging as a strong World Cup candidate.
• Cristian Roldan assisted both goals, demonstrating leadership and composure.
• Pulisic’s fitness is critical for the USMNT’s 2026 World Cup ambitions.
• Next matches: Paraguay (15 Nov) and Uruguay (18 Nov) ahead of World Cup.