Christian Pulisic found the back of the net to give U.S. men’s national team a 1–0 lead over Iran in the team’s third and final group stage match.
Pulisic converted on a strike right in front of the goal, before colliding with Iran keeper Alireza Beiranvand. He was evaluated for an injury in the moments after the goal, and was subbed off at halftime for Brenden Aaronson.
Iran’s upset victory over Wales last Friday greatly raised the stakes entering Tuesday as the Americans hoped to capitalize with a win in their final group-stage match to advance past Group B.
After tallying two points in its first two matches, the USMNT needed beat Iran in order to advance to the knockout stage with a total of five points. With a 1–0 victory over Team Melli, the U.S. secured its spot in the Round of 16. It will face the Netherlands on Friday to open the group stage.
