US Soccer has issued a statement on social media, condemning racist comments hurled towards the players after a loss to Panama. The USA conceded a major upset against Panama yesterday, June 28, in their Copa America 2024 campaign. The Americans lost 1-2 to their North American counterparts at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Following the shocking defeat, several players on the American team fell victim to racist remarks. ESPN FC reshared US Soccer’s official statement on Instagram while writing, “US Soccer said several of its players were the targets of racist comments after the team’s to Panama in the Copa America.”
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After the heartbreaking loss, USA forward Folarin Balogun revealed he received racially abusive messages in his Instagram DMs. US defender Chris Richards experienced something similar. The Juventus pair of Timothy Weah and Weston McKennie were also targeted online after their Group C loss. This led to US Soccer’s official Instagram handle releasing a statement in response to the abuse. “U.S. 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,” they wrote.
US Soccer further added, “There is absolutely no place in the game for such hateful and discriminatory behaviour. These actions are not only unacceptable but also contrary to the values of respect and inclusivity that we uphold as an organization. U.S. Soccer stands firmly against racism in all forms and will continue to support our players.”
Speaking of the game, the USA received an early red card in the match that saw Weah depart in only the 18th minute. Despite having the numerical advantage, Panama failed to capitalise early in the match. A superb strike from Balogun gave the USA the advantage but the lead didn’t last long. Just four minutes later Cesar Blackman equalised from the edge of the box for Panama before Jose Fajardo added a second in minute 83.
Coming into the 2024 Copa America the USA were supposed to showcase growth following a solid showing at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. However, their heartbreaking defeat to Panama only suggests that there is still a long way to go. The USA now need a win over group favourites Uruguay to ensure they qualify for the playoffs. They will face the La Celeste next week on July 2. The decisive fixture will be hosted at the Arrowhead Stadium.
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