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Alexi Lalas rips USA-Uruguay Copa America referee: 'This guy is completely out of his depth'

IMG_0985by:Griffin McVeigh•07/01/24•

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Copa America
(Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports)

Chaos has broken out at Arrowhead Stadium. In a must-win game for the United States against Uruguay, the referee has been the main storyline. Not just for the calls being made but how the game is being conducted, craziness has ensued in the final game of Group C in the Copa America.

When the halftime whistle blew, FOX analyst Alexi Lalas ripped the referee for his performance. Not for any specific mistake, of which there were many. But his overall performance in what is a win-or-go-home game for the USMNT.

“This guy is completely out of his depth in this game,” Lalas said at the halftime break. “Now, this is not a reason for the US not being up. This is not a reason for the US not doing whatever it is. But this is a bad performance from the referee that’s going to be part of the narrative.”

Arguably the most head-scratching moment came 32′ when a foul occurred. Chris Richards made a bad tackle and was shown a yellow card by the referee. But Uruguay decided to take a quick free kick to get a break down the right side. The official did not bring the ball back and instead let the play stand.

Carli Lloyd, also a part of FOX’s Copa America coverage, went on to point out that the USA cannot let the official distract them. Bad or crazy calls may happen in the second half but the important thing is going out there, putting in a good performance, and finding a way to advance out of the group.

“The biggest thing I think they do to do coming out in the second half is not let it affect them,” Lloyd said. “We saw that in the last game against Panama, it cost them. So, they just go to keep doing what they were doing in the first half, it was terrific.”

With this game being placed in Kansas City, a lot of eyes are in Orlando too. Bolivia-Panama can affect who goes through as well, with a major upset wanted by the United States. Panama is a heavy favorite heading into the contest and currently leads 1-0 at halftime.

But head coach Gregg Berhalter needs to find a way to will his team to a win. Anything less and it’s likely a disappointing and early exit for the United States while hosting the tournament.