WATCH: Referee denies shaking Christian Pulisic’s hand after USMNT controversially got knocked out of Copa America in group stage

Despite their best efforts, the USMNT’s participation at the 2024 Copa America was forced to come to a close in the group stages. Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City was witness to a narrow and controversial win for South American powerhouse Uruguay as Christian Pulisic and his men failed to find the net in a must-win game. The USMNT ended Group C with 3 points from 3 games.

After a frustrating night against Uruguay, fans were enraged to see Christian Pulisic‘s handshake ignored by one of the match officials. Following the game, cameras captured a moment on the pitch where Pulisic was left hanging by a match official. After being ignored, Pulisic was also seen expressing his discontent toward the referee.

The USMNT have every right to feel like they ended up on the wrong side of decisions as Uruguay clinched victory thanks to a ‘controversial’ goal. Viral clips on social media show goal scorer Mathias Olivera in an offside position in the build-up to the goal.

Despite strong appeals from the men in white, the goal stood and eventually led to the defeat of the USMNT.

Uruguay top Group C as USMNT disappoint with first round exit

The USMNT found themselves in a tough spot after matchday 2. Following an unexpected loss to Panama on matchday 2, Christian Pulisic and co. needed a win against the mighty Uruguay to send them through to the quarter finals. Despite a valiant effort from The Stars and Stripes, Uruguay ended up winning the game by scoring the only goal of the match.

In a tight encounter, Uruguay took the lead in the 66th minute from a set piece, when Ronald Araujo leapt over his marker to head the ball towards Matt Turner. Despite Turner getting his hands on the initial attempt, the ball landed at Mathias Olivera’s feet, who made no mistake to beat the keeper from point blank. That being said, the USMNT also had their fair share of chances to take the lead.

Folarin Balogun spurned an early chance in the first half despite being through on goal owing to a marvelous pass from Weston McKennie. However, Balogun failed to convert the chance and was eventually forced off the pitch owing to an injury sustained during the same. His collision with Sergio Rochet was concerning for the entire stadium as the player likely suffered a thigh contusion in the process.

In case you missed it :

• Jude Bellingham’s celebration under investigation by UEFA, as England star fears punishment
• WATCH: Harry Kane joins Jude Bellingham in his iconic celebration after England’s miraculous Round of 16 comeback in Euros

Stay Updated!

Join our newsletter to receive exclusive updates and curated insights directly to your inbox.

Subscribe NOW