Tim Weah committed a serious mistake by throwing a punch, dealing a significant setback to the United States’ chances of advancing in the Copa America.
José Fajardo scored in the 83rd minute against substitute goalkeeper Ethan Horvath, leading Panama to a 2-1 win over the undermanned Americans. This result puts the host nation at risk of elimination unless they defeat Uruguay in their final first-round match.
The U.S. played most of the game with a player less after Weah received a red card in the 18th minute. “Getting a red card is never intentional. Under no circumstances,” said teammate Tyler Adams. “He apologized to the team.”
Weah publicly apologized on social media, stating, “I let down my team and my country. A moment of frustration led to an irreversible consequence, and for that, I deeply apologize to my teammates, coaches, family, and our fans.”
Referee Iván Barton from El Salvador issued a straight red card to Weah for hitting Roderick Miller in the back of the head.
“Timmy made a foolish decision that left us short-handed,” said coach Gregg Berhalter. Folarin Balogun scored for the U.S. in the 22nd minute, but César Blackman equalized in the 26th minute.
Horvath, who replaced the injured Matt Turner at halftime, could not stop Fajardo’s close-range shot, resulting in Panama’s third victory over the U.S. in 27 encounters.
“A win tonight would have put us in a strong position, but unfortunately, the opposite happened,” said American captain Christian Pulisic. “I’m proud of the way we responded after what happened with Timmy, but I’m disappointed with the outcome.”
