Argentina Taught the US a Diplomatic Lesson at the 2007 Copa America

At the 2007 Copa America in Venezuela, the United States men’s national team, led by Jimmy Conrad, faced tight security and political tensions between the US and the host country. With intense diplomatic efforts in play, the USMNT aimed to display their best on the football field.

However, their encounter with a formidable Argentina team, boasting stars like Hernan Crespo and Juan Roman Riquelme, proved challenging. The young Lionel Messi, showcasing his exceptional talent, left a lasting impression on Conrad and his teammates.

Despite the USMNT’s valiant efforts, Argentina’s dominance led to a 4-1 defeat in the group stage, with goals from Crespo, Carlos Tevez, and Pablo Aimar. This tournament experience provided valuable insights for the US team, preparing them for future competitions.

The 2024 Copa America being hosted in the United States offers a chance for Gregg Berhalter‘s squad to take on the distinctive playing styles of the South American teams, including the likes of Messi and Riquelme.

While the Copa America journey ended early for the USMNT in 2007, Conrad cherishes his memorable tackle on Messi as a personal highlight, showcasing his competitive spirit and resilience on the field.