The United States' start to the World Cup left a convincing performance on the field and also generated recognition off it. After the 4-1 victory over Paraguay in the tournament's debut, Frenchman Olivier Giroud highlighted the role of Christian Pulisic and assured that the American soccer player meets the conditions to boost his team during the championship.

The former France forward, his team's all-time top scorer, knows the current leader of the American team closely. He shared a dressing room with him both at Chelsea and later at AC Milan and used that experience to describe the qualities he observes in the winger.

“Christian reminded me of Eden Hazard because of the way he faced rivals and the ease he had at dribbling past people,” said Giroud in statements reported by BBC Sport.

The comparison did not remain solely in technical aspects. The French attacker explained that during his time as a leading forward he found in Pulisic the ideal profile to complement his offensive movements.

“I played as a reference man and needed speed and movement around me, someone like Pulisic, playing in the pocket between the lines, receiving the ball, looking for me and taking advantage of my hairstyles.”

The United States opened the World Cup with a three-goal lead, the largest for the country in a World Cup since two 3-0 victories recorded in the inaugural edition in 1930.

Pulisic, centerpiece of the American project

The performance of the American player was one of the focuses of the match. Pulisic was actively involved in attack and provided an assist for Folarin Balogun's goal before leaving the match during the break.

It was later reported that the substitution responded to a preventive measure due to a blow to the calf, as explained by coach Mauricio Pochettino.

Giroud assured that the level shown against Paraguay did not surprise him.

“I wasn't surprised by how well he played against Paraguay, because I think he has what it takes to take the US team to the next level over the next few weeks.”

The Frenchman also recalled how the footballer was seen internally during their shared time in Italy. “I have always thought that the United States is lucky to have him, because he has skill and intelligence.”

In addition, he revealed the nickname with which he was identified within the Milan locker room.

"In Milan we called him by his nickname, 'Captain America,' because even when he wasn't wearing the captain's armband of the United States, he was their star player, the one with the highest profile."

Regarding the aspirations of the host team, Giroud avoided placing the United States among the favorites for the title, although he did point out the specific weight that his former teammate will have. “No one expects the United States to win this World Cup, but if they are going to reach the knockout stage, he will be key,” he said.

The United States will continue its journey in Group D with the next matches against Australia and Türkiye.

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