Canada Coach Slams Copa America: It’s Not a Professional Tournament, Our Treatment Has Been Clearly Unfair

Prior to their upcoming match for third place against Uruguay in the Copa America, Canada’s head coach, Marsch, launched a scathing attack on the tournament organizers, bluntly stating that this international football spectacle “is not a professional event.” His comments follow hot on the heels of Uruguayan coach Bielsa’s remarks, further exposing organizational issues behind the scenes.

Marsch stated, “Throughout the tournament, our players have faced discrimination both at the venue and on social media. We feel like we’re being treated as second-class citizens.” He will lead his team against Uruguay on Saturday for the third-place playoff.

In response to Bielsa’s criticisms, Marsch remarked, “I partly agree with him, but there are also points I disagree with. In my view, the organization of the Copa America is riddled with flaws, whether it’s in day-to-day hospitality or the overall experience of participating, it falls short of professionalism.”

He further pointed out that if the Canadian team had clashed with fans post-match like the Uruguayan team did, they would likely face harsher penalties. “I witnessed the chaos at the end of the game, but one thing is certain: we don’t want the families of our players to go through such scenes. However, I am equally sure that if our team had reacted similarly, given the unfair treatment we’ve received in this tournament, we would be facing even more severe punishment.”

Marsch also severely criticized the refereeing decisions in the Copa America, believing there was an obvious bias towards South American teams, to the detriment of CONCACAF nations. He specifically mentioned the foul by Montiel on Alphonso Davies during the semi-final between Argentina and Canada.

“You give me another opportunity to discuss that brutal foul on Davies. Imagine if the victim had been a superstar from another team, especially a South American star, the referee’s reaction and handling of the incident would have been vastly different. We were fortunate that Davies wasn’t seriously injured, but it’s still uncertain if he can play. One of the basic duties of a referee is to ensure player safety, which he clearly failed to do,” added the coach who had previously clashed with De Paul during the game.

Marsch concluded by highlighting the conduct of his players throughout the tournament: “Our players have maintained discipline, never exaggerating fouls or diving, nor have they tried to provoke yellow cards through petty tricks. My players have shown the highest level of professionalism on the pitch.”