Brotherly Game Daily Links: Messi finally wins Copa America; Italy ends Euro drought

Philadelphia Union News

Jim Curtin proved why he’s the best in MLS
A red card to goalkeeper Matt Freese in the 60th minute set up Patryk Klimala to put the home side up 1-0. Down a man and on the road, the Union bounced back when second half substitute Sergio Santos got his head on a cross from Olivier Mbaizo to equalize.

MLS News

Jozy Altidore set for Toronto FC return after freeze out
Altidore was ordered by the club to train on his own following a verbal altercation with then-manager Chris Armas during a 1-0 defeat to Orlando City on May 22. Altidore was replaced in the 70th minute by Ayo Akinola, and sources tell ESPN that Altidore forcefully told Armas that both strikers should have been on the field together.

Gold Cup News

2021 Gold Cup Recap: USA 1-0 Haiti – An adequate win to start the tournament
In an overall uninspiring performance, the USA came away with a 1-0 win over Haiti thanks to an 8th minute Sam Vines goal. Overall, the game could be characterized as uneven as the USA spent much of the game failing to break down Haiti as Le Grenadiers managed to hold the Americans to just one goal and have a punchers chance at a point for the whole game.

A guide to all 16 Gold Cup teams
Broken down by nation, here’s the rundown of what each contender brings to the field. They’re divided into four groups and eyeing a ticket to the August 1 final at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

Alphonso Davies will miss the 2021 Gold Cup
Losing Davies, who would’ve been hands down the best player at the tournament, is a huge pill for this Canadian side to swallow and their depth will be put to the test.

Gold Cup Rewind: Mexico held to shocking draw in Group A opener
The loss of Hirving Lozano in the early stages of the contest to will leave Gerardo “Tata” Martino with at least one extra concern as he looks to help his side rebound from a disappointing opening to the regional competition.

Rest of the World News

Copa America 2021 Rewind: Messi lifts trophy at last after Argentina ousts Brazil
It took 16 years and more than 150 appearances, but Lionel Messi is a champion with Argentina at last.

Italy beat England in shootout to win 2020 European Championship
Italy claimed a first European Championship since 1968 after goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma saved twice in a dramatic 3-2 penalty shootout victory in the Euro 2020 final against England at Wembley.