Alexi Lalas controversially claims USMNT has 'outgrown CONCACAF' despite Copa America defeat against Panama that led to historic group stage exit

The United States headed into a major international tournament on home soil convinced that they had what it takes to make the latter stages of continental competition. Talk of lifting the trophy was played down, but another Nations League triumph had got them in a silverware-winning mood.

Gregg Berhalter’s side fluffed their lines in spectacular fashion, with costly defeats against Panama and Uruguay seeing them crash out at the group stage. There is now talk of another coaching change being made, while a collection of European-based stars are being challenged to prove their worth.

While there is plenty of criticism to be found, there is also belief heading towards the 2026 World Cup. With that in mind, former USMNT star Lalas has said on social media when asked if the U.S. are capable of claiming a Copa crown in the future: “Sure. We’ve gotten to the semi-finals twice. I just hope we are invited in the future. USMNT has outgrown CONCACAF, and the region’s lack of quality and competitiveness is hurting the US’s ability to improve.”

The USMNT finished fourth at Copa events in 1995 and 2016. They have failed to make the knockout stages in their other three appearances at that tournament, but have dominated the CONCACAF scene in Nations League and Gold Cup competition. There is obvious potential in their ranks – as the likes of Christian Pulisic, Gio Reyna and Weston McKennie look to thrive – with it now a case of trying to unlock that.