Tim Weah, a key player for the U.S. men’s national team, was shown a red card and ejected from the game in the first half of their Copa America match against Panama. This happened after he made contact with Panama’s defender Roderick Miller in the 18th minute. The decision to give Weah a red card was made after a VAR review, which meant that the U.S. team had to play the rest of the match with only 10 players.
The incident involving Weah came shortly after a scary collision between Panama’s Cesar Blackman and U.S. goalkeeper Matt Turner. Turner had jumped up to make a save but landed awkwardly on his shoulder after colliding with Blackman. Fortunately, Turner was able to get back on his feet after being assessed by the USMNT trainers. Meanwhile, backup goalkeeper Ethan Horvath was seen warming up on the sidelines as a precaution.
The fact that Blackman did not receive a yellow card for the collision may have contributed to the tension that led to Weah’s actions. The pro-USMNT crowd at Mercedes-Benz Stadium was clearly not pleased with the referee’s decision.
Despite the setback of playing with a man down, the U.S. team managed to take the lead in the 22nd minute. Jedi Robinson intercepted a pass in the box and set up Folarin Balogun, who scored with a left-footed shot to put the USMNT ahead 1-0. However, Panama quickly responded and equalized the score in the 26th minute.
Overall, it was a dramatic and eventful first half for both teams. The game was filled with action, controversy, and goals, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. The USMNT will have to regroup and adjust their strategy for the second half as they aim to secure a crucial victory in the Copa America tournament.