Timothy Weah apologized and admitted to being “sad and angry” following his early red card in the United States’ Copa América defeat to Panama.
Weah was dismissed after just 18 minutes for punching Panama’s Roderick Miller in the back of the head.
Folarin Balogun put the 10-men States in front four minutes later but Casar Blackman levelled soon after. Panama won it with seven minutes to go when Jose Farjado scored.
It leaves Gregg Berhalter’s side in real trouble in Group C. They are second but their final game is against in-form Uruguay while third-placed Panama, who are level on points, take on bottom side Bolivia. The top two teams advance to the knockout stages.
Juventus forward Weah was quick to hold his hands up afterwards, writing on Instagram: “Today, I let my team and my country down.
“A moment of frustration led to an irreversible consequence, and for that, I am deeply sorry to my team-mates, coaches, family and our fans.
“Moving forward, I am committed to learning from this experience, not allowing an opponent to provoke me, and working to regain the trust and respect of my team and supporters.
“No matter what I will always fight for my team and my country till the day I’m no longer needed or capable to! I sincerely apologize to everyone. My love for this team goes beyond just football and I’m so sad and angry at myself for putting my brothers through what they went through tonight.”
Final. pic.twitter.com/vSLbQZAEbJ
— U.S. Soccer Men’s National Team (@USMNT) June 27, 2024
Berhalter said Weah had played into the hands of Panama and referee Ivan Barton.
“The match-changing event is obviously the red card and it puts us in a tough spot,” Berhalter said.
“Tim got bumped. He got checked and he reacted. He apologized to the group and I think he understands what a difficult position he put the group in.
“We talked beforehand about the tendencies of this referee. We knew what he’s capable of, and to be honest, I think we played right into his hands.”
US Soccer later released a statement condemning racist abuse directed at Weah and other members of the team.
It read: “There is absolutely no place in the game for such hateful and discriminatory behaviour.
“These actions are not only unacceptable but also contrary to the values of respect and inclusivity that we uphold as an organisation.
“US Soccer stands firmly against racism in all forms and will continue to support our players.”
