Swanson: Christian Pulisic is the spark the U.S. will need in the World Cup's knockout stages

Christian Pulisic is framed as the key spark for the U.S. as it enters the World Cup knockout stage, after returning to action in the group finale. The United States lost 3-2 to Turkey at SoFi Stadium, but the Americans advanced anyway, already winning Group D and knowing the result would be inconsequential. Pulisic, 27, had been “put on ice” earlier due to a calf injury picked up during a June 12 4-1 win over Paraguay, when he was substituted at halftime. He had missed the June 19 2-0 victory over Australia, but came on for Tim Weah in the 58th minute against Turkey. With largely new starters on the field, his introduction immediately changed the game, creating three goal attempts in five minutes. The U.S. will play Bosnia-Herzegovina on Wednesday in the round of 32.