Football News Update: USMNT Cruises Past Bolivia 2-0 in Copa América Opener
In a dominant performance, the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) cruised past Bolivia 2-0 in their Copa América opener on Sunday night. Christian Pulisic, the star player, scored the opening goal in the third minute and also provided the assist for Folarin Balogun’s goal in the 44th minute, leading the USMNT to a comfortable victory.
The match, played at the 80,000-seat AT&T Stadium in Dallas, which will host a World Cup semi-final in 2026, was attended by a crowd of 47,873 people. The experienced US side easily handled the youthful Bolivian team, with ten of Bolivia’s starters entering the tournament with 10 caps or fewer.
Pulisic’s early strike was the fastest American goal in 34 competitive matches against South American opponents. He played a short corner to Timothy Weah before running into the penalty area, and Weah returned the ball to Pulisic, who curled a right-foot shot into the far corner.
Balogun then doubled the lead with a well-taken low, left-foot shot that found the far post, after receiving a pass from Pulisic. The USMNT had 18 touches inside the attacking penalty area in the first half, while Bolivia had none.
Despite creating numerous chances, the US could not extend their lead further, but they were still comfortable winners. Midfielder Tyler Adams, regaining fitness after a back injury, made his first start for club or country since 30 March.
The USMNT will continue their Copa América campaign against Panama on Thursday in Atlanta, before facing Uruguay on 1 July in Kansas City. Bolivia, who have now lost 13 consecutive Copa América matches dating back to 2015, will meet Uruguay on Thursday in New Jersey, and then play Panama on 1 July in Florida.
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