The U.S. was eliminated from the Under-17 World Cup after a dramatic penalty shootout defeat to Morocco. The match took place at the Aspire Academy in Qatar as part of the knockout stage.
Key Match Events
The contest saw the U.S. take an early lead. Jude Terry scored midway through the first half, thanks to an assist from Cavan Sullivan. His strike, however, featured a deflection that played a critical role in finding the net.
As the match neared its conclusion, Morocco equalized in the 89th minute. Abdellah Ouazane managed to score with a low shot that bypassed U.S. goalkeeper Aidan Stokes, leading to penalties after a 1-1 draw.
Pennalty Shootout Overview
During the tense penalty shootout, three U.S. players scored: Sullivan, Chase Adams, and Mathis Albert. Unfortunately, Cooper Sanchez and Maxi Carrizo both missed their attempts. Moroccan goalkeeper Chouaib Bellaarouch made a crucial save against Carrizo, sealing Morocco’s advancement.
Performance Highlights
- Cavan Sullivan was a standout player, contributing to nearly all U.S. goals in the tournament.
- He finished with two goals and two assists.
- This team marked a significant achievement as only the second U.S. team to secure three wins in the group stage of this tournament.
Other Teams Advancing
Morocco’s victory allows them to progress to the round of 16. Other teams moving forward include:
- Portugal
- Mali
- France
- Switzerland
- Mexico
- Republic of Ireland
- Brazil
The U.S. team, although disappointed, showcased remarkable talent, especially from young players like Sullivan. Their journey in the tournament will undoubtedly be a stepping stone for future competitions.
