Gregg Berhalter vehemently criticized Timothy Weah’s imprudent red card in a pivotal 2-1 loss to Panama, jeopardizing the United States’ continuation in the Copa America.
The team commenced their stint with a commendable 2-0 victory against Bolivia, only to encounter an unforeseen setback in Atlanta during their second encounter, putting pressurized hopes on their upcoming game against Uruguay.
Reduced to 10 men for the majority of the match following Weah’s outburst aimed at Amir Murillo, the squad struggled but failed to net an equalizer, even after Panama’s Adalberto Carrasquilla received a matching dismissal.
Post-match, Berhalter conceded Weah’s lapse had significant repercussions but hinted that the Salvadoran referee, Ivan Barton, was already on the lookout for a pivotal moment.
“We were aware of this referee’s repute; we anticipated his tendencies and, frankly, we fell right into his trap,” admitted Berhalter.
“It was all too easy for him. Tim was pushed, retaliated and set an effortless stage for a decision.
Weah acknowledged his error to the team, fully aware of the precarious scenario he induced.
“Regrettably, it unfolded and we paid the price. The task now is to regroup and clinch victory in the upcoming fixture.
“The squad remained resilient and nearly salvaged a point. But it’s frustrating, there was potential for more, and Timmy’s rash choice left us handicapped,” Berhalter lamented.
Christian Pulisic reiterated the critique, remarking, “Timmy is conscious of his blunder. It stings. It’s a harsh way to compromise the team’s advantage.”
“Painful indeed. It was merely a fleeting error in judgment. A mere response gone awry in a split second,” he added.
