USMNT to face South American powerhouse in Copa America 2024

The USMNT was drawn into Group C, with Bolivia, Panama and Uruguay.

Bolivia is the least-known of the three opponents; the USMNT has played it just eight times. While the record is balanced at 2-2-4, the USMNT has won all of its most recent matches against the Bolivians, racking up a 7-0 goal difference in its past two meetings.

Panama, however, is very much a known quantity. The Panamanians have been a real thorn in the USMNT's side for years: they knocked the Americans out of the Gold Cup this summer and prevented them from qualifying for the World Cup in 2018.

But the most intriguing opponent of all is Uruguay.

Casual soccer viewers may not know much about the small South American nation, but it's one of the most successful soccer countries on earth. The nation of 3.4 million people has won 15 Copa Americas and two World Cups. It's known for its aggressive, open-hearted, never-say-die style, and it's led by legendary Argentinian coach Marcelo Bielsa.

It's the most difficult team the USMNT could've received in its draw, and coach Gregg Berhalter knows it.

"That was obviously the hardest team in Pool 2," Berhalter said of Uruguay. "You know, that's why we do this. If there's no pressure, you don't get diamonds."

The top two teams in Group C will advance to the knockout rounds of the tournament. Uruguay and the USMNT are favored to clinch those spots, but Panama and Bolivia are both capable of delivering upsets.

The other two heavy hitters in this tournament, Argentina and Brazil, are in groups A and D respectively.

Their bracket positions mean they won't be able to meet each other until the final game.

The Copa America kicks off in June 2024 with games all across the States. The USMNT will open its tournament against Bolivia on June 23 in Arlington, TX. The final will take place on July 14 in Miami, FL.