USMNT issues statement on racist comments

Folarin Balogun

The United States Men’s National Team suffered a disappointing loss to Panama in the group stage of the Copa America tournament on Thursday night, falling 2-1 in a loss that severely hurts the team’s chances of advancing out of the group. And it sounds like some of the players were hit with some racist comments after the disappointing game.

After the loss, USMNT striker Folarin Balogun, who had perhaps the best performance of his career with the team, shared some racist comments he received from fans on social media. The hate prompted a response from U.S. Soccer.

“U.S. Soccer is aware of and deeply disturbed by the racist comments made online and directed at several of our Men’s National Team players following tonight’s match,” U.S. Soccer said in a statement after the game.

“There is absolutely no place in the game for such hateful and discriminatory behavior. These actions are not only unacceptable but also contrary to the values of respect and inclusivity that we uphold as an organization. U.S. Soccer stands firmly against racism in all forms and will continue to support our players.”

The USMNT plays its final group-stage match against Uruguay on Monday night.

[United States Men’s National Team]