Christian Pulisic admits that USA’s defeat by Holland ‘will hurt for a long time’, but the football star insists he is grateful that his ‘lifetime dream’ of playing at the World Cup has become a reality
Christian Pulisic conceded that Saturday’s heartbreaking 3-1 defeat by Holland in the round of 16 will still hurt for a long time but vowed the USA would bounce back.
Gregg Berhalter’s side were sent home from Holland in Qatar, putting an abrupt end to growing optimism about a young and talented team.
The USMNT star was dejected after the game and was visibly emotional as he hugged the family in the stands.
“It will hurt for a long time,” Pulisic wrote on Instagram on Sunday morning.
A devastated Christian Pulisic was comforted by USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter after the loss
“But I am so grateful to this team and everyone who has supported us through this.
“A lifetime dream came true to represent my country at a World Cup. We’re coming back to the US.’
Teammate and Fulham defender Antonee Robinson commented on the post, saying: “Couldn’t be prouder of you mate.”
Pulisic commented on Instagram as Antonee Robinson shared his pride in the US star
Pulisic had a terrific chance to give the USA the lead in the third minute, but was denied by Dutch goalkeeper Andries Noppert.
Louis van Gaal’s men proved too clinical and smart for a youthful stars-and-stripes side.
Memphis Depay opened the scoring for the Dutch after Pulisic missed a golden opportunity in the third minute.
Team USA star Christian Pulisic was visibly emotional while hanging out with family and friends
As USA continued to press, they were injured again before the break when Daley Blind scored Holland’s second.
Substitute striker Haji Wright cut the Americans short for a glimpse of hope before Denzel Dumfries’ 80th-minute volley erased any thoughts of a comeback to make it 3-1.
Pulisic’s positive performances at the tournament have increased interest in his signature, with Chelsea pondering the next steps for his future.
The Chelsea man had a glorious one-on-one opportunity to open the scoring against the Dutch