The U.S. men’s national team has a rich history that spans over a century, with 10 appearances in the World Cup despite a 40-year drought. Their history in the Copa América is more recent, with only four appearances since 1993. As they gear up for their fifth appearance in the tournament, six former U.S. players shared their experiences with FOX Sports.
Ecuador 1993:
In 1993, the U.S. team used the Copa América to prepare for the upcoming World Cup. Captain Tab Ramos reflected on how some players didn’t fully grasp the significance of the tournament at the time. Despite a loss to Uruguay and a tie with Venezuela, the experience was eye-opening for the team.
Uruguay 1995:
By 1995, the U.S. team was more confident and experienced, having reached the second round of the World Cup the year before. Players like Gregg Berhalter recalled the special moments, including a memorable win against Argentina. The team played with no fear and a strong sense of camaraderie.
Venezuela 2007:
The U.S. team faced challenges in 2007, with most regular players missing due to the Gold Cup final just days before the Copa América. Left back Jonathan Bornstein shared his experience playing against a star-studded Argentina team, including Lionel Messi. The political tension in Venezuela added another layer of difficulty for the team.
USA 2016:
In 2016, the U.S. hosted the Copa América Centenario in celebration of the tournament’s 100th anniversary. Players like Alejandro Bedoya and Brad Guzan highlighted the excitement of hosting the event and competing against top South American teams. Despite a strong performance, the team fell short in the semifinals and the third-place match.
Overall, the oral history of the USMNT players reflects the growth and evolution of the team over the years in the Copa América. From learning experiences in the early appearances to more confident performances in later tournaments, the players shared valuable insights into their journey in the prestigious competition. The upcoming Copa América in 2024 presents a new opportunity for the U.S. team to continue building on their legacy in international soccer.