US soccer ‘deeply concerned’ about racist abuse of players after Panama Copa America defeat

U.S. Soccer officials said they were “deeply concerned” after several U.S. national team players were subjected to racist comments online following their loss to Panama in the Copa America.

The U.S. team suffered a shock 2-1 defeat at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, putting its chances of advancing to the quarterfinals of the tournament in doubt.

Timothy Weah was sent off before Folarin Balogun gave the USA the lead. Cesar Blackman equalized before Jose Fajardo stunned the tournament hosts with the winning goal seven minutes from time.

The United States Soccer Federation (USSF) did not name players in a post-match statement, but goal scorer Balogun and defender Chris Richards have publicly shared incidents of racist insults they have experienced on social media.

The USSF said in a statement: “US Soccer is aware of and deeply concerned about the racist comments that were made online about several players on our Men’s National Team following today’s match.

US Soccer strongly opposes racism in all forms and will continue to support our players. pic.twitter.com/QayH6AY7ji

— U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team (@USMNT) June 28, 2024

“There is absolutely no place in the game for such hateful and discriminatory behavior. These actions are not only unacceptable, but also contrary to the values ​​of respect and inclusivity that we uphold as an organization.

“US Soccer stands firmly against racism in all forms and will continue to support our players.”

A week ago during the opening match of the Copa America, Canada Soccer condemned similar abuse of one of its players after defender Moise Bombito revealed racist comments on social media.

The United States will next face Uruguay in the final Group C match at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City on Monday.

(Michael Wade/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)