Fans outraged over referee decisions in Copa America match involving Christian Pulisic

Fans on social media criticized refereeing decisions during a Copa America match involving Christian Pulisic, accusing it of being "rigged." Some fans claimed that CONMEBOL rigged the game against a poorly managed USA team, while others praised Pulisic's gesture towards referee Ortega, who refused to shake it. Despite these accusations, there was no evidence of the game being rigged.

Zor

July 4, 2024

Fans Outraged Over Referee Decisions In Copa America Match Involving Christian Pulisic — Jamie Squire / Getty Images

Fans expressed outrage on social media following controversial refereeing decisions during a Copa America match involving Christian Pulisic. Many claimed the game was “rigged,” with one fan stating, “You can’t convince me that this isn’t rigged. The refereeing tonight has been terrible all game.” Another added, “Copa America is unwatchable. That was clearly offside. But this is also clearly rigged.”

Accusations escalated with one fan alleging, “CONMEBOL successfully pulled off the scam of the century. Stole all the US stadiums, money, and publicity for the Copa America, and they rigged every game against an already terribly managed USA team ensuring they don’t qualify. Congrats South America!” Despite these claims, there was no evidence the game was rigged. Controversy peaked when Pulisic extended his hand towards referee Ortega, who refused to shake it.

Fans speculated that Pulisic had gestured for the official to join Uruguay’s celebrations, though there was no suggestion he intended this. Ortega’s refusal left viewers stunned, with one fan commenting, “The unsportsmanlike conduct by these refs is next level,” and another adding, “Based on the calls in the game, there’s a chance he’s blind.”