The first 2024 presidential debate in Atlanta on Thursday is not the only major event that will clog Atlanta traffic as the U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team will also be taking on Panama at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for the second game of their Copa América campaign.
The year’s event is only the second time the tournament has been held outside of South America in the past 50 years, and the U.S. is looking to make a mark on home soil. A lot is on the line for the Yanks, with a win in this game guaranteeing a spot in the knockout round.
Anything besides victory against Panama may need a win or draw in their final group stage game against formidable opponents Uruguay to advance out of the group stage.
The Benz also hosted last week’s Copa América kick-off game between Argentina and Canada, which resulted in a 2-0 victory for Argentina. In the aftermath, both teams criticize the grass field, which was laid five days before the June 20 match. According to the Argentinian goalkeeper Emilio Martínez, “the pitch was a disaster,” and felt like playing on “a trampoline.” In this match, all eyes will be on the state of the field. Hopefully, after a week to settle, the pitch will meet the international soccer standard required for a tournament of this stature.
For the USMNT, Panama is a familiar Concacaf side with the Yanks recording 17 wins, two losses, and seven draws historically. The last time they faced the Pamanians was in July 2023’s Gold Cup semifinal, which resulted in Panama advancing on penalty kicks following a 1-1 draw. The US, with its squad of many established European stars, are vying for revenge in this match and are favorites to win, especially after cruising to a 2-0 victory over Bolivia on Sunday.
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Eloisa’s take
Although Panama is coming off a 3-1 loss against Uruguay in their first Copa América game, they are sure to put up a fight against the U.S. Despite the final result, Panama grew in confidence throughout the game, making Uruguay fight to hold on to a one-goal lead until they scored a third in stoppage time.
Clearly, Panama will not be an easy nut to crack, and can hold their own against a stronger U.S. side. Tomorrow’s game will be an exciting one!
American players to watch
U.S. captain Cristian Pulisic had a fantastic opening Copa América game, creating an energizing force on the left wing, netting one goal and assisting the other. Coming off arguably his best European season at AC Milan, Pulisic will surely bring his dangerous skills and leadership against Panama. At striker, Folarin Balogun’s 44th-minute goal against Bolivia might be the confidence boost he needs to become a scoring powerhouse for the US. However, his goal might still not be enough to secure a starting spot on Thursday, after Ricardo Pepi generated many great chances in his substitute appearance against Bolivia.
Former Atlanta United center-back Miles Robinson is on the American squad for the tournament, but stayed on the bench against Bolivia. It seems unlikely he will touch his old home turf (or, rather, the new grass in his old home stadium) after the defensive clean sheet from center backs Tim Ream and Chris Richards last Thursday.
Where to watch
Atlanta’s ultimate soccer bar,” Brewhouse, promises a high-energy crowd for this game.
Fadó Buckhead will be showing all European Championship and Copa América games.
American Outlaws and La 12 de Atlanta are teaming up to host a Pregame Tailgate at 550 Mitchell Street SW from noon to 6 p.m., featuring live music and local vendors.
Wick Wolf Sports Pub & Club, just a couple steps away from the stadium, will offer the ultimate soccer experience, with raffles, DJ, and an exciting environment.
TV:
All games will be televised live on FOX Sports (FOX and FS1) and on TUDN.
