The United States have never been considered a powerhouse in the international realm of soccer. With their first World Cup appearance in 1930, “The Stars and Stripes” finished 3rd overall (although no third place game was played), a feat which still holds the record of being the best World Cup finish by any non-European or non-South American team. Since this achievement however, the USMNT has had a very lackluster track record in tournaments outside that of CONCACAF. After fizzling out in the group stage of the 1950 World Cup, the United States would not qualify for another 40 years. Once the “Yanks” made it back into the tournament in 1990, they would qualify for the next six tournaments although only making it past the round of 16 one time. Looking beyond this however, the United States have done remarkably well in CONCACAF tournaments. Since their first appearance in 1985, the USMNT has claimed 7 CONCACAF championships and finished runner-up 6 times.
Carrying the U.S into this Copa will be the myriad of young talent which has generated a great deal of excitement in the States over the last decade. Players such as Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Tyler Adams have shown their class across the pond in some of the world's best leagues, whilst all being under 25 years old. McKennie and Pulisic have both had strong seasons at Juventus and AC Milan respectively, while Adams, although being injured during this season with Bournesmouth, was the rare bright spot on Leeds United last season. Look to see both Mckennie and Adams in the central midfield, with Pulisic up top on his preferred left wing. Being the youngest American to ever wear the captain’s armband, Pulisic will continue to be the team’s captain this tournament. Managing the squad is former USMNT player Gregg Berhalter, who retained the position despite the feud which occurred between him and player Gio Reyna in the 2022 World Cup. This dispute (most likely about Reyna’s playing time) boiled over when Reyna's father leaked personal information regarding Berhalter and his wife. Although his tactics have been victim to much criticism from fans, with many grimacing at the States’ high press which produces a shockingly low number of goals, Berhalter’s relationship with the young players (excluding Reyna of course) was reason enough for the U.S soccer federation to rehire him last summer.
If the United States and Berhalter can avoid any roadblocks within the 6 weeks before the tournament, there is reason to believe that they can raise some eyebrows this Copa. Positioned in a group with Uruguay, Bolivia, and Panama, they should have little trouble advancing to the knockout stage. Here the task may be too large for the States’ youngsters to handle as Brazil will be the most likely match up coming out of Group D. If the USMNT can avoid any early matchup with Brazil however, their talent will give them a good chance at making yet another Copa América semifinal. Anything beyond this would be considered miraculous.
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