Christian Pulisic (foto: Posnetek zaslona)
Uruguay's footballers secured first place in Group C of this year's Copa America with a perfect nine points after defeating the hosts USA 1-0 in Kansas City, thus eliminating them from further competition.
The only goal of the match was scored by Mathias Oliveira in the 66th minute after he reacted best to a rebound off American goalkeeper Matt Turner, who struggled to save Maximiliano Araujo's header.
The USA finished the group stage in third place with three points. The second place and a quarterfinal spot from this group were secured by Panama, who defeated Bolivia 3-1 in Orlando. Jose Fajardo Nelson gave Panama the lead in the 22nd minute, and Bruno Miranda equalized for Bolivia in the 69th minute. However, Panama ultimately prevailed with goals from Eduardo Guerrero in the 79th minute and Cesar Yanis in injury time.
The match between the USA and Uruguay did not go without controversy. The decisive goal was highly controversial as it seemingly followed an offside. A video that emerged after the match clearly shows that Oliveira was entirely ahead of the American defense when Araujo struck towards the goal.
After the goalkeeper's save, Oliveira became active and scored, but the goal should likely have been disallowed. It remains unclear why VAR did not intervene after this goal, which decided the match. You can view the situation HERE.
At the end of the match, USA captain and AC Milan player Christian Pulisic was extremely angry with the referees, and cameras caught him suggesting to the officiating crew that they go celebrate with the Uruguayan players. It is almost certain that he will be subsequently punished for this.