Calls for USA coach Berhalter to be dismissed intensify after Copa America

The U.S. men’s national soccer team had big dreams this summer, aiming to build momentum toward the 2026 World Cup. Instead, they’ve hit some speed bumps.

Their mission at the 2024 Copa America was clear: qualify for the knockout stage and challenge the best of CONMEBOL. Making it to the semifinals would have been a major achievement.

But Monday night’s loss to Uruguay in Kansas City dashed those hopes, sending the United States packing early from Group C.

With pressure mounting on USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter following this Copa America setback, we will now take a look at what lies ahead for the team and whether a coaching change is on the horizon.

Should USA fire Gregg Berhalter after Copa America elimination?

Gregg Berhalter has had plenty of time, resources, and talent at his disposal to elevate the U.S. men’s national team to new heights on the global stage. Instead, they seem to be treading water, if not sinking.

In the past, Berhalter could point to tough draws, injuries, or other factors to explain setbacks. This time, however, the blame squarely lands on his shoulders. His tenure began with promising battles for CONCACAF supremacy against Mexico, but now, with the U.S. reigning supreme in their region, fans hunger for victories against top-tier global opponents — something the team has rarely savored since shocking England in 1950.

Since then, the U.S. has managed just one significant win outside their comfort zone: a stunning victory over Spain at the 2009 Confederations Cup, a tournament that’s no longer even around. Their only World Cup knockout win came against Mexico, and a memorable triumph over Brazil in the 1998 Gold Cup remains a distant memory from a less prestigious competition.

Under Berhalter’s leadership, the U.S. has yet to notch a signature win against a non-regional opponent. His notable results—a draw against England at the 2022 World Cup and another versus Brazil in a friendly before Copa America—pale in comparison to the team’s potential.

Despite boasting unprecedented talent, the U.S. showed little confidence at the 2024 Copa America, failing to capitalize on their star-studded squad. Multiple red cards, including Sergino Dest’s costly dismissal in the Nations League and Tim Weah’s recent blunder against Panama, highlight a recurring lack of discipline that ultimately reflects on the coach’s preparation.

Berhalter’s cautious tactical approach has its merits but has also led to critical errors, such as the defensive stance against Panama that backfired spectacularly. His failure to unleash key players like Yunus Musah in crucial moments further underscored tactical missteps, leaving the team vulnerable and lacking offensive spark.

In pivotal matches, like the must-win showdown with Uruguay, the U.S. struggled to create chances, even amidst controversial officiating. Berhalter’s lapse in concentration during Uruguay’s decisive set-piece, compounded by his team’s distraction with external results, epitomized his in-game shortcomings.

While players have stood by Berhalter, the on-field cohesion and motivation needed to thrive under an inspirational coach have often been lacking. A spirited display against Brazil contrasted sharply with a lackluster showing against Colombia just days later, highlighting inconsistency and a failure to consistently rouse the team’s competitive spirit.

Ultimately, Berhalter has left the U.S. with a significant gap between their current standing and their aspirations for 2026. His inability to guide the team to the next level has left fans frustrated and questioning the future direction of the USMNT.

Will USA fire Gregg Berhalter after Copa America elimination?

The debate over whether Gregg Berhalter should keep his job isn’t just about personal beliefs; it’s also about the broader strategy of U.S. Soccer. Sporting director Matt Crocker, who took the reins recently, backed Berhalter early in his tenure, signaling a commitment to stability despite recent setbacks.

After the disappointing Copa America exit, initial reports hinted at no imminent changes. Even Eric Wynalda, a seasoned analyst and former U.S. international, suggested that Berhalter’s position might remain secure regardless of tournament outcomes.

U.S. Soccer’s response to the early elimination was measured but acknowledged the team’s failure to meet expectations. They pledged a thorough review to identify shortcomings and improve ahead of the 2026 World Cup, emphasizing the need for better performance moving forward.

Berhalter himself made a case for his continuity, asserting his readiness to lead the team into the World Cup. However, he acknowledged the need for a critical evaluation of what went wrong, emphasizing a collective effort involving U.S. Soccer leadership to dissect and address deficiencies.

While the future of Berhalter’s tenure hangs in the balance, the upcoming review promises to be a pivotal moment for the USMNT, aiming to steer them back on track towards international success.