The United States Under-20 men’s national team secured top spot in Group E at the FIFA U-20 World Cup, despite suffering a 2-1 defeat to South Africa in their final group-stage match in Rancagua. Entering the game with a strong goal differential, the Americans had already positioned themselves favorably, and their early momentum was evident when Noah Cobb opened the scoring with a header in the 12th minute. However, South Africa responded swiftly, equalizing just five minutes later through an own goal by U.S. defender Joshua Wynder. The momentum then shifted, and Gomolemo Kekana capitalized on a counterattack just before halftime to give South Africa the lead.
Coach Marko Mitrovic made six changes to the starting lineup, opting to rotate the squad after dominant wins earlier in the tournament. New starters included Reed Baker-Whiting, Luca Bombino, Luke Brennan, Matthew Corcoran, Pedro Soma, and Cobb, all of whom were making their first appearances in the tournament. While the U.S. pushed hard for an equalizer in the second half, South Africa’s speed and discipline on the counterattack consistently disrupted their rhythm and exposed defensive vulnerabilities.
Despite the loss, the United States finished atop the group thanks to their commanding +10 goal differential, largely earned from a 9-1 victory over New Caledonia. South Africa claimed second place with a +5 margin, while France, despite a 6-0 win over New Caledonia, ended third with a +4 differential. France now awaits confirmation of advancement as one of the best third-placed teams, depending on results from other groups.
This marks the 13th time the U.S. has advanced from the group stage of the U-20 World Cup and the sixth time they’ve done so as group winners. Their consistent performance throughout the tournament has reinforced their reputation as a rising force in youth football. The team now prepares to face Italy in the Round of 16 on Thursday, October 9, in what promises to be a high-stakes clash between two technically gifted sides.