USMNT hero Christian Pulisic has given fans a major boost ahead of their World Cup last 16 clash against the Netherlands, after going off injured at half-time against Iran.
Pulisic scored the only goal of the game against Iran as the USA won 1-0, which was all they needed as they qualified for the next stage of the competition as runners-up of Group B. But in scoring the goal after 38 minutes, Pulisic was bundled into the Iran goal, and couldn't even celebrate as he was in too much pain.
The Chelsea star was taken off at half-time and went straight to hospital for tests, while his team-mates defended their lead and secured a date with the Netherlands on Saturday. But despite concerns over his injury, Pulisic has assured fans that he'll be playing in their knockout tie.
Pulisic shared a beaming photo to his followers from the hospital bed, but he looked anything but sad and uncomfortable, fist pumping with a smile. He assured fans as he wrote: "So f***** proud of my guys! I'll be ready Saturday don't worry."
The USA went into the game against Iran knowing that a win was needed to secure qualification, assuming that England beat Wales in the other Group B clash. The Three Lions didn't disappoint, thrashing Wales 3-0 to confirm their status as group winners.
That left second place up for grabs, and Pulisic fired USA to victory to claim the final knockout place, as Iran and Wales crashed out. With the Netherlands topping Group A on seven points, they will therefore face USA at Khalifa International Stadium on Saturday at 3pm.
The Netherlands have been in fine form, scoring five goals in the competition so far, three of those coming from breakout star Cody Gakpo. They're expected to be a tough test for the USA, which is why fans began to freak out when Pulisic went off injured.
Pulisic is by far their star man, and has been at the centre of everything this tournament. He assisted Timothy Weah in their 1-1 draw against Iran, and crashed a shot off the crossbar against England with the best chance of the game.
He finally got his goal in their final group game, and it was a goal of huge importance for the USMNT. And Pulisic has now settled fears that he would be absent for their knockout tie, as if they're going to get past the Netherlands they will need him to be on form.
The USMNT will also be confident ahead of Saturday, as they are yet to concede a goal from open play in the competition. Only Gareth Bale's penalty has got past them so far, but they're expected to face more of an attacking threat against Group A winners Netherlands.
With Gakpo, Memphis Depay and Steven Bergwijn all in attack, the Netherlands pose a major threat. And with Virgil van Dijk leading their defence, scoring won't be too easy for the USMNT either.
