A Long‑Awaited Breakthrough
In a tightly contested match that ended 3‑2 in favor of the United States, Christian Pulisic finally snapped a five‑month stretch without a goal for the national team. His strike, coupled with an early assist to Sergiño Dest, shifted momentum and underscored his importance to the side.
The goal marked Pulisic’s eighth appearance in which he has both scored and assisted, drawing him level with Clint Dempsey for second place on the United States’ all‑time list for combined goal‑assist performances. His previous national‑team goal had come on November 18, 2024, in a 4‑2 victory over Jamaica, and his last club strike for AC Milan arrived on December 28 against Verona.
Manager Mauricio Pochettino, who has been overseeing Pulisic’s rehabilitation, praised the forward’s consistency in training and his positive attitude. “He’s been working hard, and I always believed the breakthrough would come,” Pochettino said, noting that the player’s confidence is now being rebuilt ahead of the upcoming World Cup.
Pulisic’s resurgence comes at a critical juncture. With a final tune‑up against Germany scheduled for June 6, the U.S. will soon face Paraguay in Los Angeles on June 12, Australia in Seattle on June 19, and Türkiye in Los Angeles on June 25 as part of the group stage. The forward’s performance offers a timely boost as the squad finalizes its preparations.
Beyond the statistics, teammates such as Weston McKennie have voiced confidence in Pulisic’s ability to deliver in high‑pressure moments. “When the game is on the line, you know he’ll find a way,” McKennie said, reflecting a broader belief that the forward’s resurgence could be a decisive factor in the tournament.