Timothy Weah, George Weah's son, did something incredible on the pitch.
The U.S. suffered a shocking 1-2 defeat to Panama in the second Group C match of Copa America 2024 against Panama held at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atalanta, the U.S. on Wednesday (Korea time). Despite the defeat, the U.S. ranked second ahead of Panama in goal difference.
Early in the game, the U.S. team had a good atmosphere. Western McKennie scored from a free kick in the fifth minute of the first half, which seemed to take the lead, but VAR check showed that the team was offside. The U.S., which continued to take the lead, faced an unbelievable situation in the 16th minute of the first half.
Weah, a forward striker, hit a Panama defender in the face in the 16th minute of the first half. Roderick Miller, who was punched by Weah, naturally collapsed and complained of extreme pain. In a position that had nothing to do with the ball, Weah punched Miller, who constantly kept him in check.
Weah was initially warned, but after VAR review, the warning was canceled and he was sent off directly. Weah also went out of the stadium without looking at the referee's exit.
After Weah's exit, the U.S. led the way with a fantastic score by Pauline Balogun, but failed to overcome its numerical inferiority and suffered a come-from-behind defeat. Considering that the U.S. opponent in the next game is Uruguay, which has been in a very good flow recently, the U.S. may face a disaster of failing to advance to the round of 16 at a tournament held in its own country. It is hard to say that we lost the match against Panama only because of Weah, but it is undeniable that Weah has a large share of the loss.
Weah's father is a legendary soccer player. He is the only African-born George Weah who won the FIFA Player of the Year and the Ballon d'Or. George Weah, the father of the family, became a highly respected figure when he was elected president of Liberia after retirement.
Players are said to be human and can make mistakes, but what Weah has shown in this match is nothing short of tarnishing his father's name. Weah apologized through his social media after the match. "I have disappointed my team and my country. I deeply apologize to my team members, coaches, family and fans for making such a choice at one moment." 업소알바
"From now on, I will try to learn from this experience, not allow my opponent to provoke me, and win back the trust and respect of my team and supporters," he added. However, Weah cannot play against Uruguay right now.