Hosts United States Expect Big Things at Copa America, Says Musah.
The United States men’s national team, hosts of the Copa America, are aiming high as they prepare to open group play against Bolivia on Sunday. Midfielder Yunus Musah, speaking after a recent pre-tournament draw against Brazil, believes the team has the potential to go the distance (as reported by Reuters)
In a friendly match earlier this month, the U.S. team delivered a solid performance to secure a 1-1 draw against tournament favourites Brazil. Musah highlighted the team’s defensive solidity and organisation as key strengths that they plan to carry forward into the competition.
“The intensity and being really solid defensively and being really organised – we saw it was difficult for Brazil to beat us,” Musah said. “So we see that as a strength of ours and we want to carry that on because that’s what’s going to help us.”
Musah, alongside his AC Milan teammate Christian Pulisic, is part of a close-knit U.S. squad eager to make a significant impact in South America’s premier national team tournament, which features six CONCACAF invitees.
The U.S. men’s team’s journey to the knockout stages at the most recent World Cup has raised expectations among fans, particularly as the country prepares to co-host the quadrennial tournament in 2026. Ranked 11th in the world, the U.S. will not underestimate their opener against 84th-ranked Bolivia, with challenging matches against Panama and Uruguay looming in Group C.
“We know that we’re capable of doing good things and, yes, we need to show that on the field and that’s what we’re going to try to do,” said Musah. “We expect big things from ourselves. As players, we want to do the best. We want to get very far in the competition.”
As anticipation builds, the U.S. team is ready to demonstrate their potential and strive for success in the Copa America, starting with a strong performance in Arlington.