The USYNT dominated the 2024 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup knockout round in an impressive manner on Saturday, defeating Paraguay 7-0 in Bogotá, Colombia. This victory was achieved with the help of talented young players from the NCAA and NWSL.
With eight NWSL rookies on the roster, the USYNT set a record for the most professionals on a US U-20 World Cup team. This win marked the largest U-20 WWC victory in team history.
It has been 12 years since the US last won a U-20 WWC, and this is the first time since 2016 that they have progressed beyond the group stage.
Young NWSL and NCAA players elevate the U-20 game
US players, who have traditionally been considered inferior to European players due to the US club-based academy system, are now turning professional at younger ages. This trend is making the USYNT more competitive and challenging college programs to excel.
In the recent victory, Angel City defender Gisele Thompson and Utah Royals rookie Ally Sentnor scored goals. Emeri Adames, the youngest goal-scorer in Seattle Reign history, tied a national record for most assists in a U-20 World Cup game. Princeton junior Pietra Tordin scored a hat trick, becoming the first US player to do so since Savannah DeMelo in 2018.
USYNT to battle Mexico in U-20 knockout match
This year’s U-20 World Cup format includes a Round of 16 for the first time. The USYNT will confront their regional rivals, Mexico, a team they had previously faced in the 2023 Concacaf Championship final and in two July friendlies.
How to watch the US vs. Mexico at the U-20 World Cup
Tune in to watch the US women’s youth national team take on Mexico in U-20 World Cup action at 9 PM ET on Wednesday, broadcasted live on FS2.
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