In the opening match of the 2024 Copa America campaign, the United States men’s national team showcased a strong performance in a 2-0 victory over Bolivia. Christian Pulisic set the tone for the match by opening the scoring in the third minute with a well-placed shot that left Bolivian goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra diving in vain. Pulisic continued to make an impact throughout the game by playing a crucial role in the USMNT’s second goal just before half-time, solidifying his position as the man of the match.
While the United States secured a clean sheet, there were moments of defensive inconsistencies that could have been exploited by a more clinical opponent. The backline, consisting of players like Tim Ream and Chris Richards, struggled at times to maintain possession and were prone to giving the ball away in dangerous areas. These lapses in concentration could prove costly against tougher opponents later in the tournament.
In the midfield, players like Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie displayed a mix of rustiness and moments of brilliance. Adams, making his first start for the USMNT since March, showed glimpses of his capabilities but also had some errant passes. McKennie, on the other hand, struggled to make an impact in the first half but grew into the game as it progressed. However, his unnecessary yellow card could pose a problem in the upcoming games.
The United States attack was spearheaded by Pulisic, who not only scored the opening goal but also provided creative spark throughout the match. Alongside him, players like Folarin Balogun and Timothy Weah contributed to the offensive efforts, with Balogun scoring the second goal of the match. Despite some missed chances, the USMNT showcased a promising attacking display that bodes well for the remainder of the tournament.
The substitutions made by head coach Gregg Berhalter also played a crucial role in securing the victory. Players like Yunus Musah and Johnny Cardoso brought fresh energy to the midfield, while Ricardo Pepi and Brenden Aaronson added depth to the attacking options. These strategic changes helped the United States maintain control of the game and close out the match with a convincing win.
The United States men’s national team’s 2-0 victory over Bolivia served as a strong start to their Copa America campaign. While there were areas of improvement, such as defensive lapses and missed opportunities, the overall performance showcased the team’s potential for success in the tournament. With key players like Pulisic leading the charge and a solid bench to rely on, the USMNT looks poised to make a statement in the competition.