The 2024 Copa América is not just a showcase of the finest teams from South America and CONCACAF; it also serves as a stage for current and former USL Championship players to display their talents on an international platform.
This article dives into the notable players from the USL Championship and USL League One who are participating in this prestigious tournament, demonstrating the USL’s significant role in nurturing talents that compete globally.
Carlos Harvey: A USL Champion at Copa América
Carlos Harvey’s journey from USL Championship success with Phoenix Rising FC to the international arenas of Copa América is a testament to his growth and the developmental prowess of the USL. Harvey, who won the 2023 USL Championship title, has accumulated significant experience with 85 regular season appearances, scoring 11 goals and providing five assists over 6,234 minutes before moving to Minnesota United FC in Major League Soccer.
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Opening Night Highlights
The tournament began with a clash between Argentina and Canada at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium, highlighting the event’s scale and the quality of participating teams. Argentina beat Canada 2-0. As reigning champions, Argentina’s entry sets a high competitive standard, while Canada’s involvement underscores the increased quality and international reach of CONCACAF teams gearing up for the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup.
USL Influence in Team Canada
Canada’s squad features Tani Oluwaseyi, who transitioned his promising USL performances into a burgeoning MLS career. The 23-year-old forward, a 2023 All-League Second Team selection, displayed his scoring prowess with 17 goals and seven assists in 25 appearances for San Antonio FC last season, and has continued his form with seven goals and four assists in 15 appearances for Minnesota United FC this year.
Alphonso Davies, who remains the youngest goalscorer in USL Championship history, and Maxime Crépeau, the 2018 USL Championship Goalkeeper of the Year, highlight the influence of the USL on Canadian soccer. Richie Laryea and Dayne St. Clair, with their substantial USL statistics, and Jacob Shaffelburg’s performance in USL League One, further illustrate the league’s role in developing players for international competitions.
Costa Rica’s USL Veteran
Ariel Lassiter’s career began at LA Galaxy II in the USL Championship, where his remarkable ability to find the back of the net was first noticed. With 30 goals and six assists in 58 regular season appearances, Lassiter now brings his talents to Costa Rica’s national team and Club de Foot Montreal, showcasing the foundational role the USL played in his career development.
Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz From USL
Jahmali Waite, goalkeeper for El Paso Locomotive FC, and Kevon Lambert, midfielder for San Antonio FC, represent Jamaica in this edition of Copa América. Waite’s recent performances, including key World Cup Qualifying victories, highlight his importance to the team, especially with 59 Championship appearances under his belt.
Damion Lowe and Kevon Lambert have been instrumental in their roles within the USL Championship, amassing significant playing time and contributing to their teams’ successes, which they now hope to replicate on the international stage.
Paraguay’s Goalkeeping Revelation
Carlos Coronel, who now plays for New York Red Bulls and the Paraguay national team, began his journey in the USL Championship with Bethlehem Steel FC. His early exposure in the league, totaling 36 saves across eight appearances, paved the way for his international and MLS careers.
US Players With USL Experience
The US squad includes Tyler Adams, a 2016 USL Championship title winner, and Matt Turner, whose foundational years at Richmond Kickers were critical in his rise to the Premier League and the USMNT. Their USL experience highlights the league’s role in nurturing talent that reaches the highest levels of international soccer.
Ricardo Pepi, Brenden Aaronson, Miles Robinson, and Mark McKenzie, all of whom have USL experience, are part of the US squad, demonstrating the league’s significant contribution to developing players who achieve international acclaim.
Toulouse FC’s Venezuelan Talent
Cristian Cásseres Jr., now a midfielder for Toulouse FC in Ligue 1, began his professional journey in the USL Championship with New York Red Bulls II. His performances in the USL, where he scored three goals and made two assists over 27 appearances, laid the groundwork for his successful transition to European football and the Venezuelan national team.