Canada has truly been one of the most beautiful stories of the 2024 Copa America. Reaching the semi-finals wasn’t expected from the Canucks yet they managed to defy the odds. While it’s the efforts of the whole team that counts, head coach Jesse Marsch may deserve a special shoutout for his work. Forget the tactical side, his aggressiveness during half-time has rather impressed a few USMNT fans, which has automatically shed a negative light on Gregg Berhalter.
The ‘Land of Maple syrup’ was trailing by a goal at half-time against Argentina after Julian Alvarez broke the deadlock for the World Champions. As both sides headed toward the tunnel, Marsch looked furious. The 50-year-old was clearly unsettled by the score, constantly waving his hands in the air. He was also hyping up the Canadian fans in the stadium to keep cheering for the team.
Notably, Canada presented Argentina with a tough challenge tonight. The Alphonso Davies-led side took plenty of chances on goal and were not shy about testing Emiliano Martinez. They also tried to maintain possession to keep their composure in the game. However, the defense fell short during the 22nd minute when Alvarez found the back of the net.
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Marsch certainly expected his side to do better. They had already lost the previous opening game of the tournament to Messi and Co. 2-0. Hence, the Reds will at least try to give their all to defy the odds and reach the final. Perhaps that’s why Marsch was seen agitated with the scoreline. Interestingly, his character and passion seem to have had a magical effect on U.S. Soccer fans, who are now demanding their next coach to have similar traits.
Jesse Marsch garners praise from USMNT fans as Gregg Berhalter finds himself under scrutiny
The incident that involved Jesse Marsch walking down the pitch in anger somehow made it to the internet. Netizens on X, formerly Twitter, backed the Canadian boss over his frustration and instead took a dig at Gregg Berhalter for not having a similar attitude.
Of course, no one likes to lose, and the feeling of Marsch is quite understandable. This fan claims that this is a sign of a good coach, who expects his team to deliver the best they can.
What’s your perspective on:
Is Jesse Marsch the aggressive leader the USMNT desperately needed instead of Gregg Berhalter?
Have an interesting take?
Good.
A good coach should be pissed right now🫡
— NKY Bracket Guy (@BracketNky) July 10, 2024
Gregg Berhalter remains the most-wanted man in America over USMNT’s premature exit from the Copa America group stages. Now, shots are being fired at the 53-year-old for not showing a similar attitude when managing the Star and Stripes.
Greg would’ve been clapping while throwing behind the back passes
— Peter Smith (@Psmith087) July 10, 2024
Perhaps this mindset has seen Marsch lead Canada till the semifinals, something that Berhalter lacks according to this fan. As a host nation, a lot of hope was there for Team USA to do well. However, it was the same old story for them this year. If Berhalter brings this change then we might see USMNT dominate as well.
It would be great to have a coach that has a fire in his belly and actually calls players out if justified. Berhalter appears to be Mr. Nice Guy.
— Joan Sautre (@sauteed) July 10, 2024
This is just the Copa America semifinals that Canada managed to make, that too as a CONCACAF-based nation. Imagine if Marsch continues to motivate his side like this in the 2026 World Cup. Then we wouldn’t be surprised to see Canucks as the underdogs among other contesting nations of the world.
Bro needs to stay all the way through World Cup 2026 🔥
— Carlos (@CarlosBitMe) July 10, 2024
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Already Berhalter remains under scrutiny over the team’s recent performance. Looking at the attitude of Marsch makes this fan wonder if he ever saw the USMNT coach igniting a fire within his players.
Never see that type of emotion from Berhalter
— Phyllip (@phylld6735) July 10, 2024
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Looks like the criticism of Gregg Berhalter isn’t going to cool down this easily. After looking at Jesse Marsch, USMNT fans are clear about what they deserve to see from a coach. Regardless, share your thoughts in the comments.
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Debate
Is Jesse Marsch the aggressive leader the USMNT desperately needed instead of Gregg Berhalter?