USA hopes to “control emotions” in Copa America decider against Uruguay

Hosts USA will need to work on their psychological aspects against favorites Uruguay in the Copa America Group C final next Monday, with qualification for the quarter-finals, midfielder Tyler Adams said on Saturday.

“We have to control our emotions in these big games. We cannot allow situations outside the field to take over us, the fans, hostile environments (…). We can’t be naive,” Adams commented at a press conference with partner Anthony Robinson.

Timothy Weah’s red card for striking an opponent was the turning point in the home side’s loss to Panama, which put coach Greg Berhalter’s team in danger of early elimination.

See more

Back to work, rain or shine. pic.twitter.com/EvoMDq9hjW

— US Soccer Men’s National Team (@USMNT) June 29, 2024

Uruguay has six points from two rounds with a goal difference of +7, while USA and Panama have three goals each with a difference of +1 and -1 respectively. Bottom team Bolivia continues without scoring. The Bolivians also face the Panamanians on Monday at the same time.

“When VAR is consulted or something like that, we can’t give the opponent decisions that could affect our goal-related chances. Obviously, we talked to Timothy and we talked about it as a team,” continued the England-based Bournemouth player.

Robinson, for his part, said America remains optimistic.

“We have been in similar situations many times (…). Obviously, a win puts us in a better situation to progress to the next stage. When we have 11 players on the field, we all have confidence again that we can face anyone”, highlighted the Fulham full-back. “Training was good today. I think we showed the intensity we needed from the first minute against Uruguay.

Although the U.S. could be eliminated in the event of a win against Uruguay depending on the outcome of the match between Panama and Bolivia, Robinson said the match should be played regardless of classification.