The United States Soccer Federation (USSF) has strongly condemned the racist online abuse directed at several of its players after a 2-1 loss to Panama in the Copa America.
Monaco striker Folarin Balogun, Crystal Palace defender Chris Richards, and Juventus duo Timothy Weah and Weston McKennie were all targeted with discriminatory messages following the Group C match held in Atlanta.
Timothy Weah, 24, was particularly under scrutiny after receiving a straight red card in the 18th minute for an off-the-ball altercation with Panama’s Roderick Miller, an incident that he later described as a “moment of frustration” and for which he apologized to his teammates.
In a statement released on X, the USSF expressed firm opposition to such behavior, stating, “There is absolutely no place in the game for such hateful and discriminatory behavior. These actions are not only unacceptable but also contrary to the values of respect and inclusivity that we uphold as an organization.”
Despite the numerical disadvantage following Weah’s dismissal, the US team initially took the lead at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium courtesy of a stunning goal by Folarin Balogun, his fifth goal in 14 appearances for the national team. However, Panama equalized just four minutes later through Cesar Blackman’s strike from outside the box.
Panama, ranked 43rd in the FIFA world rankings, capitalized on their advantage in the latter stages of the game, with Jose Fajardo scoring the winning goal seven minutes from time. Panama’s victory was tempered by Adalberto Carrasquilla’s red card for a reckless challenge on US winger Christian Pulisic shortly before full-time.
With the defeat, the US, currently ranked 11th globally, now faces a critical final group match against Uruguay on July 2nd. Both teams are level on points with Panama, but the US holds a superior goal difference. To advance to the knockout stage, the US must match Panama’s result against Bolivia.
The USSF, which will co-host the 2026 men’s World Cup with Canada and Mexico, remains focused on progressing in the Copa America while continuing to advocate for respect and inclusivity in soccer, reaffirming its commitment to combating all forms of discrimination within the sport.