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U-18 USMNT overcome halftime deficit to beat Hungary

Tab Ramos Javier Perez

Photo by ISIPhotos.com

By DAN KARELL

The Under-18 U.S. Men’s National Team produced a stunning comeback victory in their opening match at the 21st International Tournament of Vaclav Jezek in the Czech Republic.

Holding a one-goal deficit at halftime, the U.S. U-18s rallied to score three times in the second half to beat Hungary U-18, 3-1. Forward Sebastian Elney scored twice, while U-17 USMNT star Haji Wright scored a late insurance goal to seal the victory. Midfielder Miklós Kitl scored the lone goal of the match for Hungary.

Crew Soccer Academy midfielder Ben Swanson helped the U.S. tie the score in the 50th minute, providing an assist on Elney’s first goal. The U.S. then took the lead four minutes later when defender Pablo Pelaez played Elney through for his second goal of the day.

Wright put the U.S. up 3-1 in the 82nd minute when he took a pass from Collin Fernandez and fired home.

The win puts the U-18s into second place in Group A ahead of their final group stage match against the Czech Republic on Thursday. The Czech Republic need just a draw or win to earn the top spot in the group, thanks to a 4-1 victory over Hungary on Tuesday.

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What do you think of this result? Impressed with the comeback? Do you see Elney continuing his strong showing in the future with the U-20s?

Share your thoughts below.

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