USA Captain Pulisic Injured in Tense 2-1 Win Over Australia

On October 15, 2025, the USA national team faced off against Australia in a tense match at Dick's Sporting Goods Stadium in Colorado. The game started with the USA dominating possession and territory, but it was the visiting Socceroos who struck first.

In the 19th minute, Jordy Bos, a rising star in the Dutch Eredivisie, scored a shock opening goal for Australia. However, the USA's response was swift, as striker Haji Wright netted a brace to put the hosts in front before halftime.

The match took a concerning turn when USA captain Christian Pulisic was forced off the pitch in the 27th minute due to a lower leg injury. Pulisic had recently returned to the starting lineup after an ankle issue, but the physical challenges from the Socceroos proved too much, and the AC Milan star had to be substituted.

Despite the loss of their captain, the USA grew in confidence and control, pressing further into Australia's final third. Wright and midfielder Cristian Roldan both had chances to extend the lead, but the score remained 2-1 at the break.

The second half saw Australia push for an equalizer, with Bos continuing to impress down the left flank. However, the USA's defense held firm, and Wright's second goal proved to be the decisive strike, handing Tony Popovic his first loss as Socceroos boss and denying Australia the chance to potentially face an easier group at next year's World Cup.