Christian Pulisic finally got the start on Saturday in Chelsea’s Premier League match against the Wolverhampton Wanderers and played 72 minutes before being substituted. Not only did Pulisic start, but he played well and also managed to score his first goal of the season. Chelsea went on to beat Wolverhampton 3-0 and remain in fourth place in the English Premier League standings.
Chelsea Manager Graham Potter Gives the USMNT Star the Start
Overall, it was an excellent performance for the American striker, who looked to be in good form and had four shots total, the most in the match. As good as he played, the result could have been even better if Pulisic took advantage of some golden opportunities in the first half.
Pulisic had a good chance in the 21st minute but failed to capitalize on his opportunity. He received the ball about 15 yards from goal on the left side of the box, but unfortunately for Chelsea, his left-footed shot sailed far over the target.
Just a few minutes later, Kai Havertz dribbled toward the left side of the goal box and was challenged by the Wolves’ goalkeeper, who left his goal wide open. Havertz deftly played the ball back to the charging Pulisic, but the American failed to get a shot off before a defensive tackle was made.
Pulisic’s frustration grew as he missed another shot in the 28th minute. This time a beautiful cross was sent in as Pulisic managed to slip in behind the defense. His first-time header from about twelve yards out never had a chance and harmlessly soared well over the net.
Pulisic finally put a shot on target and nearly scored the opening goal of the match in the 31st minute with a powerful shot from outside the penalty box. It appeared to be bending into the goal until Wolverhgampton’s goalkeeper, José Sá, made a spectacular save to keep the match scoreless.
Pulisic Scores First Goal of the Premier League Season
Just eight minutes into the second half, the USMNT star finally got on the scoresheet after combining with Mason Mount to double Chelsea’s lead. Pulisic played a give-and-go with Mount and cooly chipped the charging goalkeeper from a very difficult angle.
Chelsea manager Graham Potter commented on the resounding victory, albeit against one of the Premier League’s weaker opponents. Potter said, “we want to score more than one, we were playing so well, and if you have that performance level, the goals will come. Just a case of keeping that going and keeping the performance good. The effort was fantastic, and they’ve worked hard in training this week.”
According to Sofascore Statistical Ratings, Pulisic had 43 touches in the match and 87.5% passing accuracy. The American now has twenty career goals in the Premier League, trailing only Brian McBride and Clint Dempsey in goals scored by Americans in the EPL.
Despite playing most of the game and turning in a solid performance on Saturday, Pulisic did not touch the field during Chelsea’s 2-0 victory versus AC Milan in the Champions League. Pulisic continues to impress with his play as of late, but will likely play inconsistent minutes while being part of such a talented roster. It would benefit Pulisic’s development if he were to transfer to another club, specifically a team where he could start and play loads of minutes.
