Copa América: USA captain Pulisic ‘cannot settle for’ ref’s calls

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — United States captain Christian Pulisic was clear in stating that he didn’t imagine officiating was in charge for his crew’s group-stage exit at Copa América, however he was baffled by the selections made in Monday’s 1-0 loss to Uruguay at Arrowhead Stadium, a consequence that sealed the People’ destiny.

“Actually, I imply I noticed issues that I’ve by no means seen earlier than proper in entrance of my eyes right now that I simply I really I am unable to imagine,” Pulisic instructed reporters. “It isn’t why we misplaced; we’re not out of this event due to officiating.

“However actually, I’ve simply seen issues that I simply actually — I imply I believe everybody can simply give admit I do not know what I am . I do not know what they’re calling. I do not know what he is — he provides no rationalization. He is doing issues that I simply cannot settle for.”

Referee Kevin Ortega was seen on digital camera refusing to shake Pulisic’s hand following the ultimate whistle after Pulisic appeared to first gesture one thing to him from a distance.

“He would not shake my hand. It is regular — I imply, I assume.”

Uruguay defender Mathías Olivera scored the one purpose of the sport within the 66th minute. Olivera gave the impression to be in an offside place when the ball was flicked on, however a prolonged VAR evaluate confirmed the purpose with out sending Ortega to the video monitor. Replays confirmed an indiscernible quantity of overlap between Olivera’s physique and the foot of USMNT defender Chris Richards, who ostensibly held the Uruguayan onside.

“It is fairly loopy, actually,” USMNT head coach Gregg Berhalter mentioned of the decision. “I do not perceive it. You already know, I really feel like I do know the rule fairly effectively. I really feel like we had the images which are exhibiting how the rule might be interpreted and it is an offside purpose. It is disappointing, it truly is, however , that occurs in soccer and we now have to reside with it, clearly.”

There have been a number of controversial no calls all through Monday’s match, however the oddest second outdoors of the purpose got here within the thirty second minute, when Ortega pulled out a yellow card to problem to Richards. Uruguay went to play the free kick shortly, and, earlier than absolutely extending his arm to boost the yellow card, Ortega raised his different arm to point a “play on” sign. Nahitan Nández was in behind on purpose however scuffed his shot.

The sport is often held up when a yellow card is being issued in order that the referee can report the reserving. A number of U.S. gamers argued with Ortega after the play. Adams mentioned after the match it was the “first time I might ever seen” an incident like that.

The 1-0 loss, mixed with Panama’s 3-1 win over Bolívia in a simultaneous match, left the USMNT third within the group. It’s the first time the U.S. has didn’t advance from the group stage of a Copa America, Gold Cup or World Cup performed on dwelling soil. The U.S. will co-host the 2026 World Cup.