Morning everyone, and Happy United Day! We got so much soccer on today. We got D.C. United hosting the Seattle Sounders (8:00pm, RFK). We have U.S. Open Cup 3rd Round action featuring an 11:00am tilt between the Richmond Kickers and the Fort Lauderdale Strikers. Why 11:00am? Because the Strikers are terrible at scheduling. And finally, there are plenty of international friendlies to get you through the day. And now, let’s get to it!
Exclusive: Columbian Nat’l Soccer Player Arrested in Miami Beach | CBS Miami
Pablo Armero isn’t on the Copa America squad for Colombia, and it’s probably a good thing for the team because he faces some real trouble after being charged with battery in an alleged domestic violence incident at a Miami Beach hotel.
American Outlaws and MLS supporters: Growing together for club and country | MLS
American Outlaws leaders discuss how their experience with local MLS supporters groups have shaped their success. As we enter Copa America, the Outlaws are ready to support the United States to victory. Full disclosure: you get a nice quote from yours truly in this one too!
Argentine FA threatens Copa America exit over government interference | ESPNFC
An interesting story out of Buenos Aires where the Argentine FA has said they could pull their team from the Copa America Centenario because of government interference in their FA’s presidential elections. This seems like hollow threats to me, but it’s certainly something to keep an eye on.
Copa America Centenario will skip extra time, go straight to penalties in quarters, semis | Fox Soccer
More Copa news: in the knockout stages, there will be no extra time in the quarterfinals and semifinals. Instead, matches will advance straight to penalties. I don’t like this, but I’m sure with the short time period of the tournament and what will be incredibly hot temperatures at almost all of the ten venues, it’s probably best for the players.
David De Gea still on Real Madrid’s radar, would Manchester United sell? | Managing Madrid
What would summer be without the David De Gea to Real Madrid rumor train gaining steam? Personally, they’re looking for a Top 3 keeper. In my mind, they already have one. His name is Keylor Navas and he is a proud holder of a UEFA Champions League winner’s medal.
Messi’s tax fraud case begins with player avoiding court | Pro Soccer Talk
The most anticipated tax fraud case in the world began yesterday with Lionel Messi deciding not to appear in court. He is scheduled to testify in his tax fraud trial in Barcelona, which is delaying his arrival to the U.S. for Copa America.
Christian Pulisic: the making of a young man ready to step up | The Guardian
Christian Pulisic is the newest U.S. sensation. The Guardian takes a look at his upbringing and how he’s found success for both club and country at such a young age.
Foreign players set to leave Algeria | BBC
Effective next month, Algeria is banning foreign players from its domestic league. We take a look at some of those players and what their plans are now that Algeria is no longer an option.
Alright, time for the most important meal of the day. Have a good day everyone, and we’ll see you at RFK tonight. Desde hoy, forever, yeah, tonight, we will be superstars, superstars, you and I!