U.S. coach Klinsmann banned for Gold Cup final
The United States team will be without its head coach, Jurgen Klinsmann, in the Gold Cup final against Panama on Sunday in Chicago because he was suspended for one game by CONCACAF after getting ejected from the Americans' 3-1 semifinal win against Honduras, Yahoo! Sports reported.
Klinsmann had been sent off in the closing minutes for protesting Honduras' rough play and then spiking of a ball in frustration. He apologized for his actions after the game.
The CONCACAF's disciplinary committee then decided to punish Klinsmann further.
CONCACAF issued a statement, which read, "Following a review today by the CONCACAF Disciplinary Committee, in accordance with Article VI.1b of the 2013 CONCACAF Gold Cup Regulations, it was decided that United States national team head coach Jurgen Klinsmann has been suspended for one match. This decision was reached in accordance with Articles 18.4, 19.1, 19.2 and 20 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.
"Mr. Klinsmann was ejected from the technical area for showing dissent towards the referee by throwing the ball in a violent manner during the CONCACAF Gold Cup semifinal match against Honduras on July 24, 2013, in Arlington, Texas, USA.
"His suspension will be served in the USA's next match, which is scheduled to take place on July 28, 2013, at the Gold Cup final in Chicago.
"This decision cannot be appealed in accordance with the FIFA DC Art. 118."
Many feel the absence of Klinsmann from the sidelines will not have a major impact on the outcome.
