VIDEO: Referee snubs Christian Pulisic handshake after Copa America controversy – with USMNT captain suggesting match official should join in celebrations with Uruguay

That contest saw the United States dumped out of a continental competition on home soil, with a 1-0 defeat confirming their exit at the group stage. Gregg Berhalter’s side need to look at themselves after failing to progress, but also have bones to pick with certain match officials. Ortega made a number of questionable calls against Uruguay, including allowing Mathias Olivera’s goal to stand despite the forward being offside when hitting the net.

Pulisic was among those to vent his frustration afterwards, as he gestured towards the officials and suggested that they join in with the post-game celebrations being enjoyed by Uruguay’s players. When the USMNT captain then approached the officiating team, Ortega refused to offer his hand to the AC Milan star.

Pulisic had plenty to say to Ortega before eventually moving on. Former USMNT star Alexi Lalas is another to have taken issue with the performance of the Peruvian referee. While on punditry duty for FOX, Lalas branded the performance of the officials “absolutely disgraceful”. He added during the half-time break: “Let’s use his full name, it’s Kevin Paulo Ortega Pimentel, you know when your parents get angry they use your full name because this guy is completely out of depth in this game and what he is doing.”

Another former United States international, Taylor Twellman, said of Ortega’s antics in a social media post: “Guys…..this referee is completely out of his element. Borderline grade school sh*t. Pathetic.” The USMNT now face some big decisions, including what to do with head coach Berhalter, as they continue their countdown to the 2026 World Cup – which will also be heading to the States, Canada and Mexico.