Christian Pulisic received a heavy amount of punishment from Sheffield United defenders in Sunday’s FA Cup quarterfinal, but the American star also dished it out, delivering a Man of the Match performance in Chelsea’s 2-0 victory.
Pulisic didn’t get on the scoreboard, but he kept the pressure on Sheffield United defense throughout, even as he was being repeatedly victimized by cynical challenges. Pulisic finished with a match-high four shots, including two which were denied by excellent goalkeeper saves.
Pulisic took on defenders ever chance he could, finishing with a match-high six successful dribbles before finally being replaced in the 83rd minute of what was his best overall performance of 2021.
Introducing your @Emirates Player of the Match… 🥁@ChelseaFC's @cpulisic_10 👏 pic.twitter.com/ZCpWcNBu0q
— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) March 21, 2021
Pulisic should now be heading to Austria to join up with the U.S. Men’s National Team for what would be his first national team appearance in 18 months, when the USMNT faces Jamaica on March 25. The Americans are also set to face Northern Ireland on March 28.
As for Chelsea, it was drawn against Manchester City in the semifinals of the competition, a possible opportunity for American fans to see Pulisic go head-to-head with international teammate Zack Steffen.