The opening three games for the United States at the Under-17 World Cup have been something of a roller coaster ride heading into the Round of 16.
Ahead of Thursday’s group stage finale against Colombia, the U.S. was finely poised to top the group; with six points into two games, a draw was all that was needed. Solid performances against India and Ghana had put them in position to win Group A.
Tied at 1-1 after 45 minutes against the Colombians, its seemed within reach. But the U.S. collapsed, given up two goals in the second half, finding themselves advancing to the knockout stage as a third place finisher.
The course of the three games has put the U.S. in position for a likely Round of 16 match against Group B winners Paraguay on Monday. These three players have stood out the most for the U.S. through the first three group games.
