Crystal Pouncey
Jul 02, 2024 - 07:05

USA vs Uruguay: Berhalter's USMNT Player Ratings & Copa America 2024 Exit

Uruguay defeats USA 1-0 in Copa America 2024, ending USMNT's campaign early. Controversy, injuries, missed opportunities plague American side.

Uruguay emerged victorious with a 1-0 win over the USA at Arrowhead Stadium, bringing an end to the USMNT's Copa America 2024 journey at an early stage.

In the final Group C showdown of Copa America 2024, the USMNT faced a formidable opponent in the unbeaten Uruguay. Missing Tim Weah due to suspension, Gregg Berhalter made tactical adjustments by handing Yunus Musah his first start and pushing Gio Reyna to the right wing.

The match kicked off with the USA displaying high intensity, taking the game to Uruguay and dominating possession in the initial 20 minutes. Despite the crowd's support at Arrowhead Stadium, the Stars and Stripes failed to convert their dominance into goals, with only one shot on target between both teams in the first half.

The game took a scary turn with injuries to Maximiliano Araujo and Folarin Balogun in the first half, disrupting the flow of play. Uruguay capitalized on half-chances and eventually found the breakthrough with Mathias Olivera's goal in the 66th minute, amid VAR controversy.

The USA struggled to create meaningful chances in the second half, with Uruguay controlling possession and thwarting any attacking threats. Despite late opportunities, including a missed chance by Haji Wright, the USMNT fell short in their quest for a crucial goal.

Player ratings reflected a lackluster performance from the USMNT, with goalkeeper Matt Turner and key players like Weston McKennie and Christian Pulisic failing to make a significant impact. Berhalter's tactics and team selection came under scrutiny as the USA bowed out of the tournament prematurely.

Ultimately, the defeat highlighted the shortcomings of the USMNT in a crucial match, raising questions about the team's future and Berhalter's tenure as head coach. The disappointment of an early exit from Copa America 2024 on home soil left fans and pundits alike pondering the team's next steps.