The U.S. soccer team will be missing a key figure for the Gold Cup final against Panama on Sunday: their coach.
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Jurgen Klinsmann was suspended for one game Friday by CONCACAF's disciplinary committee, the result of his ejection in the 87th minute of a 3-1 victory over Honduras in the semifinals Wednesday.
Klinsmann was dismissed "for showing dissent towards the referee by throwing the ball in a violent manner," the disciplinary committee found. FIFA rules require anyone ejected from a match to be suspended for the following game. The decision cannot be appealed.
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U.S. captain DaMarcus Beasley said Friday:
"I don't think it changes too much. It's always good to have him on the bench, but he'll give his wisdom before the game ... make sure we get off on the right foot. But it's not going to be the same not seeing his face on the sideline, giving us instructions when we need it and being the enthusiastic person that he is on the bench. Especially, when we score or he needs to tell us something if we need to change something."
The incident in question happened Wednesday after the referee failed to issue cards on a series of hard fouls against the Americans. He could be seen yelling and gesturing angrily in the direction of the referee, and was told to leave the field after he slammed a ball into the ground.
Klinsmann later apologized for his action saying he was acting out of frustration.
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Sport's Illustrated Grant Wahl tweeted after the incident saying that that Martin Vasquez will take over for the United States on Sunday for Klinsmann.
Klinsmann says Martín Vásquez and Andreas Herzog will be co-head coaches on sideline during Gold Cup final.
— Grant Wahl (@GrantWahl) July 27, 2013
Vasquez has served under Klinsmann as an assistant coach since he took over in 2011. His only head coaching experience came with Chivas USA, where he was relieved of his duties after just one season.
The Americans are seeking their fifth Gold Cup title. They also are looking to extend their record 10-game winning streak in all matches. It's going to be interesting to see how they do minus their coach.
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