Christian Pulisic's calf injury kept him out of the United States' 2-0 victory over Australia in the 2026 World Cup, but the team demonstrated they can thrive without their star player. Mauricio Pochettino, the US coach, opted for a two-striker formation with Ricardo Pepi and Folarin Balogun, a tactical shift that paid off handsomely. The US surged to a 2-0 halftime lead and maintained it until the final whistle, showcasing their adaptability and depth.
Pepi's role in the new system
Pepi, who made his first World Cup start, explained the benefit of playing with two strikers: 'I feel like it opens up some spaces... If the defenders are marking me, then the other [striker] is always free.' This chemistry, built over years of playing together at youth and senior levels, allowed the US to break down Australia's low defensive block, which featured five defenders and a zonal marking scheme. The Socceroos, who had beaten Turkey in their opener, were forced into an early own goal in the 11th minute when Cameron Burgess deflected Balogun's cross into his own net.
Building attacks without Pulisic
Antonee Robinson, who provided the assist for the own goal, highlighted Balogun's movement: 'I could see that he was looking to run the space in behind, so I just kind of played it down the channel for him, and then he's done a lot of work to create a chance.' Balogun, who scored a brace against Paraguay, forced the error under pressure. The second goal came from a free-kick, where Pepi's presence in the box occupied defenders, allowing Alex Freeman to score after a deflection from Sergiño Dest's shot.
Adaptability and confidence
Pochettino's decision to forgo a midfielder for a second striker was a gambit that worked, as the US controlled the second half with ease. Australia made three substitutions at halftime but failed to generate significant attacking threat. Pepi's pressing and ability to find space made him a valuable alternative to Pulisic, despite their different playing styles. For Pepi, who was left off the last World Cup roster, the start was a memorable moment that should earn him more playing time. Robinson summed up the team's confidence: 'Whether it's coming to feet, running off the ball, we're all trying to create options for each other. It feels fluid.'
