Marcelo Bielsa's Uruguay triumphed over the United States with a 1-0 victory in Kansas City, Missouri, on Monday, securing their place in the Copa America quarterfinals. This defeat eliminated the host nation, a concerning sign for the United States ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which they will co-host with Canada and Mexico.
The decisive goal came from Mathias Olivera in the 66th minute, capitalizing on a rebound after U.S. goalkeeper Matt Turner deflected a header. Despite the United States' strong start, Uruguay dominated as the match progressed, turning it into a physical contest.
Uruguay, under the guidance of Marcelo Bielsa, who was in the stands due to suspension, topped Group C with nine points, winning all three of their matches. This marks the first time since 1959 that Uruguay has won all their first-round matches in Copa America. They will face the second-placed team from Group D in the quarterfinals, likely Brazil or Colombia.
Panama also advanced to the quarterfinals after defeating Bolivia 3-1 in Orlando. This victory secured Panama's second place in Group C with six points, three ahead of the United States. The U.S., needing a win to advance, saw their hopes dashed despite a promising start and a brief moment of hope when Bolivia temporarily tied against Panama.
- The match saw intense moments, including a collision between Uruguayan striker Maximiliano Araujo and American defender Tim Ream, resulting in Araujo being stretchered off with a neck brace. American striker Folarin Balogun also had to be substituted following a hard collision with Uruguayan goalkeeper Sergio Rochet.
- Uruguay generated the best opportunities in the first half, with a near miss in the 38th minute when a dangerous cross from Olivera was shot wide by Darwin Núñez. The second half saw the biggest cheer from the crowd when Bolivia scored a tying goal against Panama, briefly lifting the U.S. into second place, but this was short-lived.
- The United States had a crucial chance to equalize in the 75th minute when Rochet lost the ball, but Christian Pulisic's deflected shot was cleared off the line by Manuel Ugarte. Despite their efforts, the U.S. team could not secure the necessary win to advance.
