World Cup 2022: Christian Pulisic’s goal propels USA past Iran and into knockout round

Yahoo Sports Nick Bromberg takes you through the United States’ nervy win over Iran in the final match of the Group Stage. Christian Pulisic’s goal proved to be the difference, as the US won 1-0 and advanced to the Round of 16. The United States will play the Netherlands in the Round of 16 on Saturday at 10am ET.

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NICK BROMBERG: Christian Pulisic's 38th minute goal was enough for the US to advance to the round of 16 at the World Cup in a 1 to 0 win over Iran. Pulisic was forced to leave the game at halftime after crashing into the Iran goalkeeper right after he kicked the ball into the net. The team said Pulisic had suffered an abdominal injury and it's unclear if he'll be fit enough to play on Saturday against the Netherlands.

The US was the more dangerous team in the first half and it was a deserved goal. But Iran controlled the tempo and possession for the final 20 minutes, as Gregg Berhalter made defensive minded substitutions. While Iran had just four total shots and one on goal, it produced enough chances to make the final minutes of the game extremely stressful for US fans.

With group A winners the Netherlands on tap on Saturday, the US needs Pulisic, if he can give it a go. Josh Sargent could be a doubt too after he suffered a right ankle injury in the second half. No matter what, the US will be significant underdogs to the Netherlands. But the task will be much greater if Pulisic is unable to go.