Christian Pulisic Told USMNT He'll Return from Injury vs. Netherlands at World Cup

The knockout phase is where Christian is expected to be.

The USMNT winger, who scored the decisive goal in his country's 1-0 win over Iran but was injured on that same play and left the game at halftime, told his teammates that he plans to be on the pitch for Saturday's Round of 16 clash with the Dutch.

Doug McIntyre @ByDougMcIntyre

Weston McKennie tells reporters that Christian Pulisic told his team on FaceTime that “you best believe” he’ll be ready to play against the Netherlands on Saturday. #USMNT

In the 38th minute, Sergio Dest played a headed ball across the face of the goal, which was slammed by Christian Pulisic. After getting his boot on the ball, he directed it into the net as he collided with the Iranian goalkeeper.

Trainers helped the United States talisman walk off the field after he crumpled to the ground in pain. He briefly came back for the rest of the first half, but was taken off at the half to make room for a new player.

Weston said they were thankful that he threw his body there. It was a sad moment, but we got it done and are excited to be here.

After the game, Pulisic was taken to the hospital with an abdominal injury, which Berhalter called precautionary.

Meg Swanick @Meg_Swanick

Pulisic has been taken to the hospital for “scans”, per US Soccer

Meg Swanick @Meg_Swanick

Berhalter confirms Pulisic was taken to the hospital, saying it was “precaution”. Berhalter continues that he was experiencing some dizziness

When one of your best players is also one of the hardest working, it's a wonderful thing. He is definitely that. There are a lot of positive things about Christian.

The United States players were excited to advance to the knockout phase after a hard fought win over Iran.

Tyler Adams @tyler_adams14

Next. Round!!!!! 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/jyi4NkH0rA

The USMNT will need a full strength side against the Netherlands.

The USMNT only scored two goals in the group stage, but the trio of McKennie, Adams and Musah were able to control the draw against England.

Counter-attacking opportunities should be plentiful against a Dutch team that will be heavy favorites. It's important that the man is healthy for Saturday's match.

Tyler Adams said that the player was a huge one. I hope everything is ok for him. He's going to stay in there. He's going to do anything to play in the next game.