USA has been knocked out of the Copa America after Uruguay secured a narrow victory at the Arrowhead Stadium on Tuesday. This result means that Uruguay and Panama will qualify for the quarterfinals.
Match Result:
USA 0-1 Uruguay
Goalscorers:
Mathias Olivera 
First Half Analysis
The hosts had a strong start to the game, creating several chances in the opening quarter. However, they were unable to convert these opportunities. The first half was intense, with a lot of tough tackles. Maximiliano Araujo was substituted in the 27th minute after a heavy collision with Tim Ream. Uruguay had a great opportunity to score, but Tim Ream cleared Nandez’s strike off the line. At the end of the first half, Darwin Nunez and Pellistri missed two excellent chances that could have turned the match in their favour.
Key Moments
Maximiliano Araujo’s hefty collision
Tim Ream’s clearance to deny Nandez
Darwin Nunez and Pellistri’s crucial misses
Second Half Highlights
Both teams started the second half with more energy and created chances from each end in the opening quarters. Uruguay scored in the 66th minute after Mathias Olivera converted the rebound from Ranald Araujo’s saved header. Initially, Olivera appeared offside, but VAR intervened and the goal stood. This changed the course of the match. The USA had opportunities to equalize, with Pulisic coming close, but they couldn’t find the back of the net.
Key Moments
Both teams started the second half brightly
Mathias Olivera scored a controversial goal
Pulisic came close to scoring the leveller
Match Defining Moments
Tim Ream’s crucial clearance:
Tim Ream was the hero in the first half as he helped the team keep the score goalless. Nandez was through on goal after a quick free kick from Dawinn Nunez in the 33rd minute. All he had to do was beat the goalkeeper with a delightful cheap shot, but Tim Ream sensed the danger and made a goal-saving clearance to keep the USA in the game.
Poor referee decisions:
The Peruvian referee, officiating for the seventh time, made several eye-catching decisions that significantly impacted the match’s outcome. His most controversial moment came in the 33rd minute when he issued a yellow card to Chris Richards. Uruguay tried to move the ball quickly, and he allowed play to continue, leaving USA players in shock. The same thing happened again in the 42nd minute when Christian Pulisic thought he would score, but the referee blew his whistle.
Mathias Olivera’s winning goal:
The match dramatically turned in the 66th minute when Mathias Olivera scored a controversial goal. After Matt Turner parried Ronald Araujo’s initial header, Olivera quickly put the rebound into the back of the net. Initial replays showed he was offside, but VAR intervened to confirm the goal. This decision changed the course of the match.
Implications and Future Prospects
For the USA: The hosts had a disappointing campaign and have been eliminated from the competition. There are now questions about Berhalter’s leadership after he could not lead the team to victory. The defence was disorganised, and the pulmonary system was often isolated during the attack. With a lineup of star players, fans had high expectations. The Americans can now assess their squad and make changes as they prepare for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Changes will likely be made to the team based on their performance in the tournament.
For Uruguay: Uruguay has demonstrated its early title credentials with another impressive win against the host. The team finished the group stage unbeaten, winning all of their matches. There is a hunger and desire in the team as they fight to lead their nation to their 16th Copa America title. Marcelo Bielsa has made them a well-drilled side that is very tough to break down and doesn’t give many chances to the opponents. They will now wait to discover their possible opponents for the quarter-final.
Conclusion
Uruguay registered another impressive win in eliminating the host from the Copa America. They have put on a resilient performance and deservedly won the match. Despite securing a close victory, they will be disappointed after missing glorious chances to score. Marcelo Bielsa’s team has proven early title credentials and awaits their opponents for the quarter-final. As for the USA, it was a reality check for them after failing to assert themselves in the competition. They had a poor campaign and can now start preparation for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
