2016 USA Home – Gyasi Zardes #17 Signed BNWT

Tournament Overview

The 2016 Copa América Centenario was one of the most significant tournaments in the history of the United States men’s national soccer team. Hosted in the United States to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Copa América, it marked the first time the tournament had been played outside South America and featured both CONMEBOL and CONCACAF nations.

Managed by Jürgen Klinsmann, the United States recovered impressively after a 2–0 opening defeat to Colombia, responding with victories over Costa Rica (4–0) and Paraguay (1–0) to advance from the group stage.

In the quarter-finals, the U.S. produced one of its finest performances of the modern era, defeating Ecuador 2–1 to reach the semi-finals. Their run ended with a 4–0 loss to Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, before falling 1–0 to Colombia in the third-place match.

Despite finishing fourth, the tournament is remembered as one of the USMNT’s strongest performances in the 21st century and their best finish in a major intercontinental competition.

The 2016 United States home kit, produced by Nike, featured a clean white design with subtle horizontal striping, navy trim, and red accents. Modern yet classic, it has become one of the most recognizable vintage football shirts of the Klinsmann era.

Player’s Impact – Gyasi Zardes

The 2016 Copa América Centenario represented an important chapter in the international career of Gyasi Zardes. A favorite of Jürgen Klinsmann, Zardes brought versatility, relentless work rate, and tactical discipline to the U.S. attack.

Although not the team’s primary goal scorer, Zardes frequently operated as a wide forward or supporting striker, using his pace and defensive commitment to stretch opposing defenses and create space for teammates such as Clint Dempsey and Bobby Wood.

His willingness to press high, track back defensively, and make selfless runs fit perfectly within Klinsmann’s high-energy system. Zardes’ athleticism allowed the United States to transition quickly from defense to attack, making him a valuable contributor throughout the tournament.

While his performances often divided opinion among supporters, coaches consistently valued his movement, versatility, and commitment to the team’s tactical structure during one of the most successful U.S. tournament runs in recent history.

Full Squad List (United States – Copa América Centenario 2016)

Manager: Jürgen Klinsmann

Goalkeepers:
Brad Guzan, Tim Howard, Ethan Horvath

Defenders:
Geoff Cameron, John Brooks, DeAndre Yedlin, Fabian Johnson, Steve Birnbaum, Michael Orozco, Edgar Castillo

Midfielders:
Michael Bradley (captain), Jermaine Jones, Alejandro Bedoya, Graham Zusi, Kyle Beckerman, Darlington Nagbe, Christian Pulisic

Forwards:
Gyasi Zardes, Clint Dempsey, Bobby Wood, Chris Wondolowski