Back-to-Back Victories Over New Caledonia and France Cemented Spot in the Round of 16
The U.S. Under-20 Men's National Team has made an impressive start at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile, sitting atop their group after two dominant performances. Following a historic 9-1 victory over New Caledonia in their opener, the young Americans delivered a dramatic 3-0 triumph against France.
The match against France appeared headed for a stalemate until the Americans exploded in the final moments. Substitute Zavier Gozo broke the deadlock in the 85th minute, heading home a precise cross from Luke Brennan. Just three minutes later, Brooklyn Raines capitalized on aggressive pressing at midfield, eventually receiving a return pass from Gozo and finishing past the French goalkeeper to double the advantage.
Marcos Zambrano sealed the victory in stoppage time, converting a rebound after Gozo's close-range attempt struck the crossbar. The Americans' defensive discipline was crucial, as it limited France to just two shots on target throughout the contest.
Head coach Marko Mitrovic's tactical substitutions proved decisive, with Gozo, Zambrano, and Brennan all entering as second-half replacements and making direct contributions to the breakthrough. The team has now featured nine different goal scorers across two matches, establishing a new tournament record for the program. With six points secured, the U.S. faces South Africa on Sunday, needing only a draw to clinch top spot in Group E.
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