The United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) begins its Copa America 2024 journey on June 23, facing Bolivia in the opening match of Group C at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. With high expectations as tournament hosts, Gregg Berhalter’s squad aims to start strong against a Bolivia side they’ve historically dominated.
The USMNT enters the tournament with a mix of optimism and pressure. Drawn into Group C alongside Uruguay, Panama, and Bolivia, the Americans are favored to advance to the knockout stages. However, recent results, including a 5-1 loss to Colombia and a 1-1 draw with Brazil, have raised questions about the team’s form and readiness for the continental championship.
Bolivia, nicknamed La Verde, comes into the match as underdogs. The South American side has struggled in recent outings, suffering a 3-0 defeat to Colombia in their final warm-up match. However, tournament football often produces surprises, and Bolivia will be eager to upset their hosts in the opening fixture.
Recent Head-to-Head History:
The USA has had the upper hand in recent meetings with Bolivia. Their last encounter, a friendly in May 2018, saw the USMNT secure a comfortable 3-0 victory. In fact, the Americans have outscored Bolivia 7-0 in their last two matches, highlighting the gulf in quality between the two sides.
Team News and Predicted Lineups:
USMNT:
Berhalter is likely to field a strong lineup, balancing experience with the exciting young talent at his disposal. Christian Pulisic, fresh off a solid club season, is expected to lead the attack. The midfield trio of Weston McKennie, Tyler Adams, and Yunus Musah could provide both creativity and defensive stability.
Predicted USMNT XI (4-3-3): Turner; Dest, Richards, Ream, A. Robinson; McKennie, Adams, Musah; Weah, Ferreira, Pulisic
Bolivia:
Bolivia’s squad features a mix of domestic-based players and those plying their trade abroad. Veteran striker Marcelo Moreno Martins will be crucial to their attacking hopes, while Henry Vaca could provide creativity from midfield.
Predicted Bolivia XI (4-4-2): Lampe; D. Bejarano, Haquin, Jusino, Fernández; Saavedra, Villarroel, Vaca, Arrascaita; Moreno Martins, Ábrego
Match Prediction:
While the USMNT’s recent form has been inconsistent, they should have too much quality for Bolivia, especially on home soil. Expect the Americans to control possession and create numerous chances, with their superior attacking talent making the difference.
Prediction: USA 3-0 Bolivia
Key Factors to Watch:
1. USMNT’s defensive solidity: After conceding five against Colombia, the American backline will need to regain confidence.
2. Bolivia’s counterattacking threat: La Verde may look to sit deep and hit on the break, testing the USA’s transition defense.
3. Set-piece opportunities: With talented dead-ball specialists on both sides, set-pieces could play a crucial role.
4. Home advantage: Playing on American soil should provide an extra boost for the USMNT, potentially intimidating the Bolivian squad.
As the Copa America 2024 kicks off, this opening match will set the tone for both teams’ tournaments. A convincing win for the USA would silence doubters and build momentum, while a positive result for Bolivia could throw Group C wide open. With continental glory at stake, expect an intense and passionate encounter in Arlington.
