The United States men's national team advanced to the 2022 FIFA World Cup knockout stage with a 1-0 win over Iran on Tuesday.
Now, the Americans will be holding their breath until they find out whether they'll have their star player in the Round of 16.
Christian Pulisic was taken to the hospital for scans on what was termed an "abdomen injury" that he suffered in the victory. He was later diagnosed with a pelvic contusion and listed as day-to-day.
Pulisic was out of the hospital and back at the hotel by the time the rest of the team arrived from the game.
While the USMNT hasn't made an official ruling on Pulisic's availability for Saturday's Round of 16 match with the Netherlands, the winger seems certain that he'll play. Pulisic said in a viral social media post that he'd be ready for the game, and he shared the same message with teammate Weston McKennie over text.
Pulisic sustained the injury on his 38th-minute goal versus Iran. The 24-year-old American fell on Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand after knocking home the score.
Pulisic was in obvious pain as he remained on the ground for a few minutes. The U.S. played with 10 men when the match resumed as Pulisic stood off to the side with the U.S. medical staff.
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Pulisic returned to the field in the 43rd minute and finished out the half. He was then subbed off to begin the second half for Brenden Aaronson.
The USMNT's knockout stage match against the Netherlands, which won Group A, is set for Saturday at 10 a.m ET. The U.S. will be hoping Pulisic is able to be part of the starting XI that takes on the Dutch.
