Photo by ISIphotos.com
The U.S. Under-20 national team needed a positive result in its match against Cameroon to keep alive its hopes of reaching the second round of the Under-20 World Cup. The result the Americans earned was far more than just positive. It was emphatic.
The U.S. team overcame a sluggish start to open the scoring late in the first half, before coming out in the second half and adding a second goal just a minute after the interval. Cameroon dominated possession and created chances, but the United States held firm and added two more goals to come away with a 4-1 rout in Egypt on Tuesday (video highlights after the jump).
The victory moved the United States into second place in its group, ahead of Cameroon on goal differential. Germany tied South Korea, 1-1, in the group's other match.
Bryan Arguez opened the scoring for the Americans on a feed from Tony Taylor, who added his own goal at the start of the second half courtesy of a Dilly Duka pass. Duka made it 3-0 when he sent a floating ball from the left flank that snuck under the crossbar and over the Cameroon goalkeeper. Second-half substitute Brian Ownby capped the scoring with a breakaway finish to complete the most unlikely of blowout victories.
The Americans can now secure a berth in the second round with a win against South Korea, though a tie may also be enough to earn qualification.
If you missed the match, here are the highlights:
What did you think of the U.S. team's performance? Impressed with Duka? Change your mind about what you think this team can do in the tournament?
Share your thoughts below.
Ives Galarcep is an American soccer columnist for ESPNsoccernet.com and creator of SoccerByIves.net.
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