INGLEWOOD, Calif. - Christian Pulisic is not truly the lone member of the United States men's national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, though it may seem that way at times. Still, for one evening his personal outing on Thursday closely reflected the team's overall showing: an impressive opening followed by a disappointing close. What lies ahead counts more than any of it.

The connections between the individual and the collective stand out clearly. Pulisic stepped back onto the pitch for the co-host nation's last group fixture against Türkiye after missing time since the break in the American opener. His return drew one of the evening's biggest cheers. He looked sharp and forceful, striking a shot against the post while showing no effects from the calf issue that had kept him out. He brought energy and intent, much like the U.S. displayed early when they netted quickly for the third match running, this time after only three minutes thanks to Auston Trusty's angled finish from Sebastian Berhalter's precise delivery.

The close of the contest proved weaker. Pulisic was beaten by Türkiye's Arda Güler near the box to spark a sequence that finished with Kaan Ayhan sliding the ball past Matt Turner in added time. That strike handed already-eliminated Türkiye a 3-2 victory. After opening with such drive, both the side and Pulisic faded. The Americans fell on the final kick, leaving Pulisic with his head in his hands.

"We are treating this simply as a chance to learn," U.S. defender Chris Richards said later, "instead of a setback."

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Considering the U.S. position - they fielded mostly reserves after securing the group lead and knockout entry via two strong wins - this view makes sense.

Thursday held some value; the showings, the exposure and the feelings were genuine for players and supporters alike. Still, the key phase of this home World Cup starts Wednesday versus Bosnia-Herzegovina, when Mauricio Pochettino's group aims for just its second knockout win in recent World Cup eras.

Above all, they will have their key man available again. Pulisic skipped media duties after the match, so teammates addressed his return.

"Christian is an outstanding player," Brenden Aaronson said. "His presence changes things. Attention centers on him, which opens space for others. He was dynamic once more."

Tim Weah noted: "Christian earns the support he receives. He is the leader."

He is. The midfield held steady without him, and Berhalter netted the second goal with a fine volley. Yet the match changed with Pulisic's entry.

Right away he surged down the left, beating a defender and driving forward to set up a chance. Soon after he forced a sharp save. As in the opener versus Paraguay, he disrupted play on the flank and looked to cut inside for shots or to free teammates.

Even with other starters rested, notably Malik Tillman who combined well with Pulisic and striker Folarin Balogun, the display showed Pulisic as the decisive American. At his peak he shapes games around him.

Pochettino, who used his news conference to urge focus on the group win, spoke favorably of Pulisic's comeback.

"The key for him was regaining match feel," Pochettino said. "One goal was victory, another to give Christian 30 to 40 minutes. He ended positively and made a strong impression."

How much Pulisic can deliver against Bosnia-Herzegovina remains key. He logged roughly 30 minutes Thursday and 45 before his injury versus Paraguay. Will the U.S. see 60 or 75 minutes from him next week? Pulisic will claim he can play the full 90.

Pochettino must handle him wisely. That beats lacking him entirely. The U.S. has not defeated a European side since 2021, a run of 12 games across competitions, last succeeding against Bosnia-Herzegovina in a friendly.

Pulisic sat out that match. He will feature in this one. After his showing versus Türkiye, he should be fit enough to deliver the needed impact.

For Pulisic and the team the math is identical: Thursday brought positives and negatives. Thursday is past. The real challenge awaits.