USA book round of 16 clash with Netherlands after defeating Iran

• USA progressed to the round of 16 after securing a 1-0 victory over Iran to finish as runner-up in Group B. 
• The only goal of the match was scored by Christian Pulisic, who sustained an injury to his hip after colliding with the Iran goalkeeper. 

USA qualified for the round of 16 after finishing as runner-up in Group B following their 1-0 victory over Iran. 

The USA vs Iran fixture was a match with lots at stake, as both teams had an opportunity to progress to the knockout stages. 

Iran, who needed just a draw to proceed, will be on their way home following Christian Pulisic’s goal in the first half. 

Iran started the match on a high note putting a little pressure on the USA’s defence. However, they didn’t cause much trouble to earn them a goal. 

Gregg Berhalter’s men soon gained momentum and started to dominate the game. Sergino Dest was energetic and direct for much of the first half as USA looked for the opener, which came in the 38th minute thanks to his assist. 

Weston McKennie sprayed an inch-perfect pass to Sergino Dest after opening the Iran defence with a stray of net passes. 

Dest, who was in space on the right, squared the ball to Christian Pulisic, who made no mistake in slamming home the opener for his team.

Christian Pulisic scored the only goal of the match in the first half. Photo/ Eurosport.

However, the celebrations from a smaller contingent of USA fans behind the goal were cut short after Christian Pulisic appeared to be injured. 

The Chelsea forward sustained an injury to his hip after crashing into the Iranian goalkeeper as he scored. He required medical attention, which US team staff provided. 

Christian Pulisic resumed play, but US manager Gregg Berhalter replaced him at the start of the second half. 

Speaking of Christian Pulisic’s injury, Gregg Berhalter said that he still had no update. 

“No update (on Pulisic’s fitness), but it is a wonderful thing when one of your best players is one of the hardest working. And he is certainly that, I can’t say enough positive things about Christian.” Gregg Berhalter said, as per Sky Sports. 

USA missed Christian Pulisic’s absence in the second half as Iran fought to get an equalizer. Iran nearly found the goal they were looking for, but Saman Ghoddos’ brilliant run was headed over the bar. 

They possessed the ball but struggled to open USA’s defence and test goalkeeper Matt Turner. Iran’s best chance in the second half fell to Morteza Pouraliganji, who headed a free-kick wide of the post. 

As the final whistle sounded, USA players ran in celebration as the Iranians fell to their knees. Iran’s dream of qualifying for the knockout stages had been cut short by Christian Pulisic’s goal.

USA players after the match. Photo/ Los Angeles Times.

USA’s Sergino Dest was the player of the match. The performance of the FC Barcelona star, who is currently on loan at AC Milan, played a significant role in his team’s win.