Pulisic Kicks Off Copa with a Bang, Bolivia Bewildered

Pulisic Kicks Off Copa with a Bang, Bolivia Bewildered

3 minute read
Published: 6/24/2024

Christian Pulisic wasted no time, scoring within three minutes to propel the USMNT to a 2-0 victory over Bolivia, while tying Brian McBride for fifth-most goals in team history at AT&T Stadium.

In an electrifying start at AT&T Stadium, Christian Pulisic showcased his knack for drama by blasting a goal within the first three minutes of the USMNT's Copa America opener against Bolivia. His early strike, aided by a slick assist from Timothy Weah and capped off with some flirtation with the crossbar, not only gave the U.S. an early lead but also etched Pulisic into the record books alongside Brian McBride with 30 international goals. Bolivian goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra could do little but sigh as Pulisic continued to dazzle, later setting up Folarin Balogun for the team's second goal in a comfortable 2-0 win.

Fans barely had the chance to find their seats before witnessing Pulisic's magic on the field. A rapid exchange between Pulisic and Timothy Weah caught the Bolivian defense flat-footed. With the precision of a Swiss watch, Pulisic sent a right-to-left spinning shot hurtling towards the goal, kissing the crossbar on its way in. Guillermo Viscarra, Bolivia's last line of defense, was left with no option but to admire the elegance of the play from an unfortunate vantage point.

Pulisic's early goal not only ignited the USMNT's momentum but also secured him a place in the annals of U.S. soccer. His 30th goal for his country placed him level with Brian McBride, a figure revered in American soccer circles. At just 24 years of age, Pulisic's ascent up the scoring charts suggests that McBride might want to hold onto his hat.

Pulisic's contributions did not end with his record-tying goal. As the first half waned, he once again found himself at the heart of the action. This time, in the role of a playmaker, he delivered a pinpoint assist to Folarin Balogun. The harmony between the two was evident as Balogun smoothly converted the pass, giving the U.S. a 2-0 lead just before halftime. It seems like Pulisic and Balogun are starting their own highlight reel club!

The atmosphere at AT&T Stadium was electric, with the home crowd erupting in applause. Fans, draped in red, white, and blue, cheered the team on as each play unfolded. The Bolivian team, visibly stunned by the early onslaught, struggled to regain their composure throughout the game. The U.S. backline, anchored by a vigilant defense, ensured that Bolivia's efforts to claw back into the match were continually thwarted. It was as if the Bolivian players were trying to solve a Rubik’s cube blindfolded – they just couldn’t figure it out.

After the match, Pulisic, unassuming despite his achievements, commented on the team's performance. 'It's always a great feeling to score and help the team win,' he noted. 'But we're just getting started. This tournament has a long way to go, and we need to stay focused and prepared for the challenges ahead.' Pulisic then chuckled and joked, 'I just hope my mom recorded it this time!'

Bolivia's manager, meanwhile, could only lament the early setback that set the tone for the match. 'Conceding a goal so early disrupts any game plan,' he said with a resigned smile. 'Pulisic's quality is undeniable, and he made the difference today.'

As the Copa America tournament progresses, the USMNT will look to build on this initial success. Pulisic, Weah, and Balogun have shown promising skills on the field. Pulisic's interplay with Weah, which led to his goal, highlighted their potential for creating scoring opportunities. Fans will be eager to see if they can keep up their performance without needing to constantly check their synchronicity like a band tuning up before a big concert.

For the loyal supporters, Christian Pulisic's performance was more than just a display of soccer prowess. They left the stadium with the excitement of witnessing a great beginning. If Pulisic's early fireworks are any indication, the USMNT's Copa America journey is one that promises to keep hearts racing and opponents guessing.