The U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) will wrap up their World Cup group play stage at 10 p.m. Thursday against Turkey. Ahead of the contest, the USMNT has already clinched Group D, regardless of what happens in their final matchup of pool play.
Through their first two games, four Americans have accumulated yellow cards, putting them at risk for missing a game in the knockout stage. With the group already locked up, many fans wondered what manager Mauricio Pochettino’s plans would be for these key players.
Early indicators show Pochettino will keep the penalized players out of Thursday’s match. Additionally, he weighed on the potential of star winger, Christian Pulisic, returning to the field. Pulisic has not played since the opening match against Paraguay.
What is the Men’s World Cup yellow card rule?
According to FIFA rules, if any player receives two yellow cards in the group stage, they will be penalized by being ineligible to play in the team’s first contest of the knockout round. However, if a player enters the knockout stage with one yellow card, this will reset to zero ahead of the next round.
Which USMNT players are in jeopardy?
Tyler Adams
Folarin Balogun
Chris Richards
Antonee Robinson
Will Christian Pulisic play? Additional concerns and precautions
Star winger Christian Pulisic has not played since the first half in the USMNT victory over Paraguay in their opening game of the tournament, and is nursing a calf injury.
Pulisic has reportedly been going through individual training and rehab to get back on the field as soon as possible. However, his status for Thursday is unclear, with Mauricio Pochettino stating he could potentially see the field against Turkey.
How to watch the United States vs. Turkey, on Thursday, June 25
Watch: FOX, 10 p.m. EST, Thursday, June 25
Watch the World Cup on Fubo!
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Is Christian Pulisic playing in USMNT FIFA World Cup game tonight? Where to watch USA vs Turkey
Reporting by Cameron Cocquyt, Indianapolis Star / Indianapolis Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Cameron Cocquyt, Indianapolis Star | USA TODAY Network
