US Soccer Federation to Conduct Review After Disappointing Copa America
The United States Soccer Federation (USSF) has announced that it will conduct a comprehensive review following a disappointing Copa America tournament on home soil. The U.S. men’s national team started the competition with a 2-0 victory over Bolivia but suffered defeats against Panama (2-1) and Uruguay (1-0), resulting in an early exit from the group stage.
The USSF expressed their dissatisfaction with the team’s performance, stating that it fell short of expectations. They acknowledged the need for improvement and emphasized the importance of analyzing their performance in Copa America to enhance both the team and results as they look ahead to the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Coach Gregg Berhalter’s position is now under considerable pressure, especially with the upcoming World Cup on home soil. When asked about his future as the team’s leader, Berhalter affirmed that he still believes he is the right person for the job.
Berhalter’s previous contract as coach of the USMNT expired at the end of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. His interactions with winger Gio Reyna played a role in his contract not being renewed. Reyna’s behavior after being informed that he would not start in the opening game against Wales nearly resulted in his dismissal from the team. However, Berhalter decided to keep Reyna in Qatar, leading to further scrutiny of their relationship.
Berhalter and Reyna’s relationship was explored during a post-World Cup review. The coach discussed the issues without mentioning Reyna’s name during a Q&A session at a leadership conference. However, these comments were later published, revealing that Reyna was the player Berhalter referred to.
In response to these revelations, Reyna’s parents, former U.S. national players Claudio and Danielle Reyna, reported an incident from 1992 to former U.S. Soccer sporting director Earnie Stewart. The incident involved Berhalter kicking Rosalind, his current wife, during an argument when they were both freshmen at the University of North Carolina. U.S. Soccer conducted an investigation, which ultimately cleared Berhalter to be re-hired.
Despite the disappointing performance in Copa America, some players remain optimistic about the team’s future. Captain Christian Pulisic expressed frustration at not finding a solution in the final third against Uruguay but emphasized the importance of rest, regrouping, and rediscovering their identity.
Goalkeeper Matt Turner defended Berhalter and the coaching staff, stating that he sees no issue with the team’s direction. Turner praised the manager’s preparation and highlighted the team’s fighting spirit in every game of the tournament.
Defender Chris Richards echoed Turner’s sentiments, emphasizing that progress is being made regardless of the results. He acknowledged the criticism the team faces but stressed the importance of focusing on their own development rather than external opinions.
Midfielder Weston McKennie expressed openness to whatever comes next but stated that he and his teammates have a strong connection with Berhalter. He credited the coach for progressing the team significantly over the past few years and expressed his willingness to continue playing under his leadership.
The USMNT’s next scheduled matches are friendly games against Canada and New Zealand in September. These matches will provide an opportunity for the team to regroup and continue their development as they work towards the 2026 World Cup.