United States men's team coach Gregg Berhalter faces a massive problem after his side were knocked out of the Copa America, Alexi Lalas says.
Article continues below
Article continues below
Article continues below
USMNT knocked out of Copa America earlyNorth American nation gearing up for World CupTheir main issue outlined by former starWHAT HAPPENED?
Despite winning their first match of the competition against Bolivia, Berhalter's team were beaten by Panama and Uruguay to finish third in the group and go crashing out at the first hurdle of the tournament on home soil.
AdvertisementGettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Their early elimination comes as an embarrassment for the USMNT and a big blow to their preparations for the 2026 World Cup, which the nation will co-host alongside Mexico and Canada. Ex-United States international Lalas believes their inability to inspire their supporters and unite the country is the biggest issue facing Berhalter and his players.
WHAT LALAS SAID
Responding to a fan admitting that he feels uninspired by the current team, Lalas said: "This is the biggest problem with current state of USMNT under Gregg Berhalter. While there will always be skeptics and critics, this is a time (less than 2 years from [the World Cup]) when we should be united, inspired, and excited about the direction of this team and what 2026 could bring."
GettyWHAT NEXT FOR USMNT?
Berhalter will hope his players can bounce back from their Copa America 2024 upset as they continue to prepare for the next World Cup. They are in action again in September when they take on Canada and New Zealand in international friendlies.