Soccer

Colombia scores 2 first-half goals, beats US in Copa opener

Associated Press
Published | Updated

Colombia's James Rodriguez, center, celebrates with teammates after scoring a penalty kick against the U.S. during the opening match of the Copa America Centenario at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., Friday, June 3, 2016. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu) (The Associated Press)

Colombia scores their first goal in a Copa America Centenario Group A soccer match against the U.S. at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., Friday, June 3, 2016. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez) (The Associated Press)

Colombia's players celebrate their team's first goal in a Copa America Centenario Group A soccer match against the U.S., at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., Friday, June 3, 2016. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez) (The Associated Press)

Cristian Zapata scored his first international goal, James Rodriguez added a 42nd-minute penalty kick, and Colombia beat the United States 2-0 Friday night in the opener of the Copa America.

U.S. coach Jurgen Klinsmann spoke before this about the importance of a strong showing in the special edition 100th anniversary Copa to create buzz for a potential 2026 World Cup bid. Instead, the 31st-ranked Americans began the biggest tournament at home since the 1994 World Cup with a dud as FIFA President Gianni Infantino watched among the announced sellout crowd of 67,439.

Geoff Cameron lost his mark on the first goal, and DeAndre Yedlin left a raised arm that led to a hand ball call and Rodriguez's penalty kick.

The Americans will look to rebound on Tuesday against Costa Rica at Chicago, then close their group stage four days later against Paraguay at Philadelphia.