The United States Soccer Federation (USSF) has condemned the racial abuse suffered by multiple black players in the national team after the hosts United States fell to a stunning 2-1 defeat at the hands of Panama in the ongoing Copa America.

Following the defeat, Timothy Weah, sent off in the 18th minute of the match, Folarin Balogun, Chris Richards, and Weston McKennie were all subjected to a series of racial abuse online following the Group C game in Atlanta, which has now prompted the USSF to respond.

Reacting to the incident, the U.S. Soccer Federation tweeted, “There is absolutely no place in the game for such hateful and discriminatory behaviour.”

“These actions are not only unacceptable but also contrary to the values of respect and inclusivity that we uphold as an organisation,” the federation added.

The defeat puts the U.S.’s chance of progressing into the quarterfinals in serious jeopardy as they sit second in the group with three points — the same point as Panama, who face Bolivia with zero points in their last group game, which will determine the host nation’s fate.