Every four summers, qualifying athletes get to represent their country and compete on one of the world's greatest stages. Unfortunately, the United States may not be taking home a medal in men's soccer.
The Americans placed second in their group behind the host, France, and ahead of New Zealand and Guinea. Making it out of the knockout stage has only happened once before the United States men's team (2000, Sydney).
As the Summer Olympics are wrapping up in Paris, France, we took a look at some of the stars who played for both the LA Galaxy as well as the United States Men's National Team.
5 stars in the LA Galaxy & USMNT universe
1. Joe Corona
Appearing in 47 games for the LA Galaxy, this midfielder scored twice during his tenure. The former San Diego State University Aztec has played the majority of his professional career in Tijuana.
In the Spring of 2019, Corona officially became a member of the LA Galaxy. His first goal in MLS history came on September 15. This score led to a victory over Sporting Kansas City that day.
In the first week of September 2020, Corona was named to the MLS Team of the Week. The 2020 was not kind to the Los Angeles Galaxy (or the league for that matter) as COVID-19 shortened play. The LA Galaxy failed to make the postseason that year.
During the Olympic qualifying match against Cuba, the Los Angeles native recorded a hat trick. His three-goal performance led to a 6-0 win.
Coached by Bruce Arena in the 2017 CONCACAF Gold Cup, Corona did play twice and scored once more during the group stage for the USMNT. The United States would go on to win that year.
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