USA need 'Captain America' to produce superhero display against Belgium

The AC Milan star has provided just one assist in three appearances at the tournament so far and was forced to sit out the USA's group-stage win over Australia due to a calf injury.

Yet if the co-hosts are to overcome Belgium and advance to the quarter-finals, there can be no doubt that their former skipper will need to sparkle once again.

“Often the most important contribution is to bring out the best in those around you,” said retired superstar Zlatan Ibrahimovic after the USA beat Bosnia and Herzegovina in the round of 32.

“Pulisic is doing just that, shouldering the pressure of an entire nation and playing with courage. It takes talent to win matches but you need players like Pulisic to win titles.”

Despite veteran defender Tim Ream leading the team and Folarin Balogun claiming the headlines, expectations remain high when it comes to Pulisic.

But the former Chelsea man, 27, insists there is far more to Mauricio Pochettino’s side than just him.

He said: “We know what we can do. We have players who can find solutions and make the difference.

“We’re also aware that Belgium are a great team but we have every right to feel confident.

“I’ve played in several World Cup matches and I know full well that tomorrow’s match will be a fantastic one. We’ll do everything we can to win it.”

Former USA boss Jurgen Klinsmann firmly believes Poch’s men are capable of dumping out the Red Devils.

Speaking to FIFA, he said: “I would slightly put Belgium as a favourite because of their history and the quality of the team.

“But the US team has matured and has an incredible amount of confidence now as well as a belief through being the home team and on a good run.

“They set a bar for themselves in the first half against Paraguay in the opening game [a 4-1 win] and if they get close to that level of play, they are capable of beating Belgium.”

With in-form Balogun available to play after FIFA suspended his ban for a red card picked up in the last round, the football gods appear to be smiling on the USA.

Now they just need their superhero to do the business against Belgium.

DAZN/FIFA

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