KANSAS CITY, MO — The United States Men’s National team is officially out of the Copa America after a controversial goal gave the victory to a tough Uruguay squad on Tuesday night. The United States fell 1-0 after the referee botched a clear offsides call that gave Uruguay a chance to take the lead late in the contest.
After a loss to Panama last weekend, the Americans fizzled out in the group stage.
In a game filled with several head-scratching decisions from the referee, the United States could not muster the offense required to beat the talented South American squad. It seemed like each time the U.S. built up some momentum or had a chance, play would be stopped.
The USMNT Knocked Out of the Copa America in the Group Stage
(Credit: x.com/foxsoccer)
The first example was when the referee began to pull a yellow card and stop play, then allowed it to continue. While still holding the card, the official did nothing as Uruguay nearly scored on an attack.
The second came when the U.S. had a clear advantage after a handball on Uruguay, but the referee eventually blew his whistle and called the play back for a free kick.
The moment that killed the American’s chance at advancing came in the 66th minute when Uruguay lined up for a corner kick. Mathías Olivera scored the game's lone goal, but Uruguay looked to be offside. Even after the review made it clear that they were offside, the call stood. The U.S. fell behind 1-0 and lost soon after.
Say what you will about the Americans’ offense on Tuesday night. If the United States wanted to win, they should have scored their own goals. If the USMNT wanted to advance, they shouldn’t have faltered against Panama last weekend. Regardless, it was a disappointing result for this young American team as the host country now has to watch a champion be crowned from the sidelines.
Subscribe to the LIVE! Daily
Required
Post a comment to this article here: