As the European league season comes to an end, the football world will be turning its eyes towards national team action. Along with the Euro, the 2024 Copa America will be the major tournament.
As Lionel Messi’s Argentina and Vinicius Junior’s Brazil lay their stake for bragging rights as the top team in the Americas, other countries hope to disrupt the party. Under the tutelage of Marcelo Bielsa, Uruguay has a team that will pose a strong challenge to any opposition.
But back at home, the USMNT hopes to use the 2024 Copa America tournament to establish itself as a dominant force in global football. With Christian Pulisic and Co. rearing to go, do they have what it takes to take on the likes of Argentina and Brazil?
Copa America 2024 Is Important for the USMNT
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Over the last three decades, US soccer has grown leaps and bounds. The MLS is now attracting global superstars like Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. With such growth and investments in youth soccer, various prodigies have risen through the ranks over the last few years.
From London Donavan and Clint Dempsey to the new generation of Christian Pulisic and Giovanni Reyna, things are looking up for the USMNT. While the trajectory is on an upward trend, the team has yet to break the glass ceiling.
With the USA hosting the 2026 Men’s FIFA World Cup, the 2024 Copa America is the perfect measuring stick. If the team is going to mount a significant challenge in 2026, this is where the journey will begin.
Also read: Copa America 2024| Who Will Take the Crown Home as Messi and Charges Seek to Retain it?
USMNT 2024 Copa America Squad
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Matt Turner hasn’t had the best season with Nottingham Forest. However, expect him to retain the gloves in the 2024 Copa America. While there may be debate about the third backup, Ethan Horvath will remain as Turner’s backup.
Ahead of him, expect Chris Richards and Tim Ream to continue their partnership. Also competing to make the final squad and earn minutes in the central positions in defense are Miles Robinson, Mark McKenzie, and Carter-Vickers.
In right back, Sergino Dest’s injury will rule him out for the 2024 Copa America. However, there are various worthy replacements in the squad, such as Joe Scally, Shaq Moore, and Tim Weah. On the other flank, Antonee Robinson will start despite competition from Kristoffer Lund.
Forming the core of the team will be Johnny Cardoso providing the steel at no 6, with Juventus ace Weston McKennie, Tyler Adams, and Yunus Musah providing creativity. However, considering Malik Tillman’s form for PSV and Gio Reyna’s quality, don’t rule out changes in the midfield structure.
Offering firepower for the USMNT in the 2024 Copa America will be Josh Sargent, Folarin Balogun, Haji Wright, and Ricardo Pepi. As the main man on the team, Christian Pulisic will start wide on the left, with George Weah occupying the right wing.
Also read: Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi Set to Break MLS Salary Record Highs
Road to the 2024 Copa America Final
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Among the teams standing in the way of the USMNT reaching the quarterfinals of the 2024 Copa America is Uruguay. Undoubtedly, this will be a stern test for the team, but a positive result may provide encouragement for the rest of the tournament.
Before facing off with Marcelo Bielsa’s charges, Team USA will play against Bolivia and Panama in the first and second matches. While these are not poor sides, the USMNT is expected to reach the final group stage match with six points.
If everything goes to plan, Team USA will likely face Columbia or Brazil for a spot in the semi-final. Should they make it all the way, an enticing fixture may be in store against reigning Copa America and World Champions Argentina.
About the Author
Chris is a soccer aficionado whose life revolves around the game. He’s played competitively and is now a soccer writer and coach. Whether it’s in-depth match and player analyses or tactical reviews, his engaging writing style appeals to fans worldwide. Keep following his writings to stay informed about all things soccer.
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