USMNT ‘disturbed’ by racist comments made to players after defeat to Panama

In the aftermath of the USMNT’s surprising defeat in the Copa América to Panama, the official Twitter account of the side published a statement in which they revealed that various players, including Folarin Balogun, had been racially insulted online.

Goals from Cesar Blackman and José Fajardo cancelled out Folarin Balogun’s opener in a feisty affair at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Group C of the Copa América, meaning that Berhalter’s side have it all to do against Uruguay in the final game of the first phase.

USMNT condemns ‘unacceptable’ fan behaviour

“US Soccer is aware of and deeply disturbed by the racist comments made online and directed at several of our Men’s National Team players following tonight’s match. There is absolutely no place in the Game for such hateful and discriminatory behaviour. These actions are no only unacceptable but also contrary to the values fo respect and inclusivity that we uphold as an organisation. U.S. Soccer stands firmly against racism in all forms and will continue to support our players”, read the statement.

Where are the USMNT in Group C?

The game, as mentioned, was a tasty tie, with both Timothy Weah and Adalberto Carasquilla seeing red in either half for acts that went well past what is considered acceptable on the pitch.

Uruguay are top of Group C with six points from six, while both the USMNT and Panama have three points from two games. As things stand, is a straight shootout between the two for second place...

In the final game, the US need to equal Panama’s result to secure second place and a ticket to the quarter-final. That means if Panama beat Bolivia - which we all expect - the USMNT will need to beat Uruguay, something which looks like a huge task given the rampaging Bielsa-ball that we’ve seen the South Americans play so far.

It could be worse: Mexico are in even more dire straits. They sit third in Group B, level with Ecuador and behind them on goal difference. A win is needed for El Tri in the final game... against the Ecuadorians.