The U.S. U20 Men’s National Team sits on one point after two games at the CONCACAF U20 Championship after losing 1-0 to Panama on Sunday.
A late goal from Panama left the U.S. with zero points on the day and sent Panama to top of Group A with six points through two rounds. The U.S. returns to the field on Wednesday with a game against Aruba.
The loss did not end U.S.’s chances at qualifying for the World Cup. In the new CONCACAF Championship format, there are five group games before the winners of each group advance to the championship. Those two teams earn berths to the World Cup. Outside of the two group winners, the four teams with the most points from group play enter into a playoff for the other two CONCACAF spots at the World Cup. Anything shy of three points from Wednesday’s game would likely end the U.S.’s chances at qualifying for the World Cup.
While the bid to New Zealand is top priority, the game against Panama showcased some lingering problems with this team.
