Pulisic will do ‘everything’ in power to play

DOHA, Qatar – Christian Pulisic said he will do “everything in my power” to be on the field Saturday for the USMNT’s Round of 16 game against the Netherlands.

The U.S. star is officially listed as day to day after the “very painful” injury that sent him to the hospital during the Iran game.

“It’s a pelvic contusion. At same time, it’s not – I didn’t get hit in the balls,” he said Thursday, looking sheepish. “That bone is there for a reason. I hit it well. I was sore, but I’m getting better.”

Pulisic scored from close range in the 38th minute and then collided, full speed, with Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand. Pulisic was down for several minutes before getting up and first walking and then jogging gingerly back toward the bench.

After a sip of water, he went back into the game. It was clear he was hurting, and he didn’t come out with the team for the second half. He was taken to a hospital as a precaution.

USMNT yellow card situation

Five USMNT players carrying yellow cards could risk a one-game suspension if they are penalized as such again against the Netherlands.

In Tuesday’s win over Iran that sent the USMNT into the knockout rounds, team captain Tyler Adams was issued a yellow card. In the team’s tournament-opening 1-1 draw with Wales, Kellyn Acosta, Sergiño Dest, Tim Ream and Weston McKennie each were issued yellow cards.

All five players run the risk of missing the quarterfinals (should the U.S. advance) if they are issued another yellow card on Saturday.

All accumulated yellow cards for every player for each semifinal team will be wiped after the quarterfinals.