Copa America draw was always going to be difficult, admits USA coach Berhalter

United States head coach Gregg Berhalter feels his side have been handed a tough draw in the 2024 Copa America, but he knew that was always likely to be the case.

Tournament hosts USA will take on Uruguay, Panama and Bolivia in Group C after the draw was made in Miami.

USMNT and Uruguay will be the initial favourites to progress from the pool and reach the quarter-finals.

But securing first place could be even more important on this occasion than in other tournaments, because the runners-up are likely to face Brazil, who will be expected to top Group D, in the last eight.

“It is a tough group,” said Berhalter.

“I think any group that was going to be drawn was going to be difficult – the Copa America is a very difficult tournament.

“For us, we’re excited to finally know our competitors. Now it’s about planning our game plans and getting ready to compete.”

Berhalter is aware that getting the fans on side will be crucial to USA’s chances of success at the tournament, which starts on June 20 and features 16 teams.

What was clear from the coach’s reaction to the draw is that USA are thinking beyond just progressing from the group.

He added: “The important thing is we want to capture the fans. We want to get the country behind us and go on a run.

“We know you have to get through your group first. After you get through your group, then it’s about a knockout tournament.

“We’re trying to compete in that stage of the tournament and hopefully be competing for a trophy.

“It’s really a dream come true for us that we’re hosting the tournament and we get to play at home. The guys are really excited about it and it’s really something to look forward to for us.

“There are no disadvantages [to hosting]. We are really looking forward to trying to get the home supporters behind us and really creating great momentum.”

USA’s first game will be against Bolivia in Dallas on June 23.