In a tense and dramatic match at Arrowhead Stadium the United States (USA) faced Uruguay in a crucial Copa America 2024 group-stage encounter. The stakes were high for the U.S. team which needed a win to keep their tournament hopes alive. Unfortunately, the night ended in disappointment as Uruguay claimed a narrow 1-0 victory eliminating the United States from the competition.
The match was marred by controversial refereeing decisions from Peruvian official Kevin Ortega whose calls left both fans and players frustrated. Despite a spirited performance, the U.S. team couldn’t convert their efforts into goals leading to an early exit from the tournament. This loss raises significant questions about the future of the team under coach Gregg Berhalter.
USA vs Uruguay Highlights
1st min: The match kicks off with Christian Pulisic and Gio Reyna starting on opposite wings, setting the tone for an intense game.
7th min: Tim Ream’s header from a free-kick goes over the crossbar, showing early U.S. intent.
13th min: A low cross from Gio Reyna nearly results in a tap-in for Folarin Balogun, but Uruguay’s goalkeeper Rochet makes a crucial stop.
16th min: Tyler Adams is controversially booked after a 50-50 challenge with Matias Olivera.
24th min: Uruguay defender Maxi Araujo is stretchered off following a serious clash of heads with Tim Ream.
28th min: Folarin Balogun is brought down in the box, but the offside flag nullifies what could have been a penalty for the U.S.
45+3 min: Darwin Nunez is booked for a hard foul on Joe Scally, adding to the match’s physical nature.
50th min: Uruguay’s Nicolas de la Cruz heads wide from a corner, missing a good chance to take the lead.
66th min: Matias Olivera scores for Uruguay from a rebound off a set-piece. The goal stands after a lengthy VAR review, despite appearing offside.
69th min: Josh Sargent replaces Yunus Musah as Panama retakes the lead over Bolivia, worsening the U.S. situation.
86th min: Haji Wright misses a crucial opportunity to equalize for the U.S., opting to shoot into a crowded box instead of passing to Ricardo Pepi.
90+2 min: Christian Pulisic demands a penalty after slipping while taking a shot, but the call is not given.
Player of the Match: Matias Olivera (Uruguay)
Matias Olivera was the standout player for Uruguay scoring the decisive goal that secured their victory. His controversial goal was the game’s turning point demonstrating his opportunism and persistence in front of the goal.
Key Moment
The key moment of the match was Matias Olivera’s goal in the 66th minute. The goal stood after a contentious VAR review shifting the momentum entirely in favour of Uruguay and ultimately deciding the match.
Conclusion
The USA Copa America journey ended in heartbreak as they were eliminated in the group stage after a 1-0 defeat to Uruguay. Despite showing promise and determination, the U.S. team couldn’t overcome both the opposition and the questionable refereeing decisions.
Also Read: USA 0-1 Uruguay: Player ratings as Mathias Olivera’s second-half strike sinks the Stars and Stripes