How can USA still qualify for Copa America 2024 quarterfinals?

USMNT play Uruguay in their last group-stage game.

The United States has had a mixed performance in the ongoing 2024 Copa America home tournament. Under coach Gregg Berhalter, this talented and exciting USMNT was expected to be a genuine dark horse this summer, with hopes for a strong group stage showing followed by a potential deep run in the knockout rounds.

Placed in Group C, the United States kicked off their campaign impressively, beating Bolivia 2-0 in their opening fixture at AT&T Stadium, thanks to first-half goals from captain Christian Pulisic and forward Folarin Balogun.

However, this convincing first-match triumph was followed by an unexpected setback. The 10-man USA was stunned by Panama in a 2-1 defeat at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Berhalter’s side got off to the worst possible start when winger Timothy Weah received a straight red card in the 18th minute. Despite this, the USMNT took a surprising 1-0 lead through Balogun’s second goal of the tournament. Things then went downhill as Panama scored a quick equalizer and a late winner, completing the comeback and recording a historic win.

Heading into their tough final group game against in-form table-toppers Uruguay at Arrowhead Stadium, the USA’s chances of qualifying for the knockout rounds are in jeopardy. They are currently second in Group C, level on points with Panama (3 points).

To remain in contention for the quarterfinals, the USMNT must win their final group match against La Celeste, as Panama faces considerably easier opposition in Bolivia. With the two sides separated only by goal difference, the United States must equal or better Panama’s result against Bolivia to qualify for the Copa America quarterfinals.

A defeat against Uruguay would almost certainly end the USA’s hopes of qualification, resulting in a disappointing early exit from what could have been a promising home tournament.

The USMNT needs to be at their absolute best, both tactically and in terms of overall quality, to overcome the arduous Uruguayan challenge and keep their tournament run alive by qualifying for the 2024 Copa America quarterfinals.

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