Christian Pulisic Was OUT But the USMNT Advanced to the Round of 32, and the Hype Is Real

Alright, Emerald City! You gotta talk about the USMNT right now, because wow, they just got it done. Seriously, after all the chatter, all the nerves, the United States Men's National Team absolutely locked up Group D and pushed into the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. And get this, they did it with Christian Pulisic sidelined. Talk about stepping up!

USMNT Shines Without Pulisic

Yeah, Pulisic was out for the Australia match, first reported by FOX Sports' Jenny Taft, which had everyone biting their nails. But the boys didn't miss a beat. They bagged a 2-0 win over Australia that secured their spot, and honestly, it felt earned every step of the way. Weston McKennie and Alex Freeman were absolutely electric, starring in that crucial victory. The USMNT even took an early lead against Australia through an own goal, then Alex Freeman's goal stood after VAR overturned an initial offside call. Clint Dempsey and Javier Hernández were breaking down the 2-0 win, and even Juan Pablo Ángel and Thiago Alcântara were discussing how the USMNT should approach Türkiye next. Bob Bradley even highlighted the team's "dangerous offense." Folarin Balogun also opened up on his decision to play for the United States, showing this team has some serious talent and commitment. It's clear this squad means business, and

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I'm here for all of it. USA! USA!

Phillies Drop a Bomb While Europe Lights Up the World Cup

Switching gears for a second, what in the world is happening in the MLB between the Mets and the Phillies? We've got the New York Mets getting absolutely hammered, trailing 11-1 to the Philadelphia Phillies in the 4th inning with two outs. Yikes. That's a rough start to the season, no matter how you slice it. Meanwhile, back at the World Cup, we saw some huge action elsewhere. Netherlands absolutely crushed Sweden 5-1 in Group F. And over in Group E, Germany snagged a 2-1 win against Ivory Coast. Germany's Denis Undav has been a super sub, cooking for Germany, with all his assists and goals coming after the 60th minute. He's a name to watch, for sure. Ecuador and Curaçao had a tight one, 0-0 at halftime, so it's not all blowouts. But man, the Phillies are making a statement early in that game! So, what's next? The USMNT is through to the Round of 32, and the whole world is buzzing, with Zlatan even saying the United States CAN win the 2026 FIFA World Cup. That's a huge statement from a legend! Germany looks strong too, with Felix Nmecha getting a game-winning assist. It's still early in the tournament, but the stakes are already sky-high. Can the USMNT keep this momentum going? You bet we'll be watching every single kick, tackle, and goal. This World Cup is just getting started, and it's already delivering!

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.