Photo by ISIPhotos.com
By DAN KARELL
Even though there wasn’t much on the line, the U.S. Under-17 Men’s National Team still earned a positive result in their final group stage match.
A second-half goal by Joe Gallardo was enough for the U-17s on Thursday as they drew 1-1 with Scotland. Though the U.S. had already qualified for the championship match by virtue of their two wins against France and Norway, the U.S. learned that they would be facing hosts Turkey in the final.
The U.S created chances throughout but their only goal came six minutes into the second half (the game was played with two 40-minute halves). A long ball sent forward was well controlled off Gallardo’s chest, running at the Scotland goal before chipping the goalkeeper to put the U.S. in the lead. It was Gallardo’s second goal of the tournament, tying him with teammate Christian Pulisic for the tournament lead.
Scotland equalized in the 78th minute when a failed clearance was sent back into the box towards the far post. Ross McCrorie met the ball before U.S. goalkeeper Carlos Avilez, though the ensuing collision injured both players in the process.
The draw gave the U.S. U-17s seven points from three matches, good for the top spot in Group B.
Here are the highlights from the game:
——–
What do you think of this result? Excited about the U.S. U-17s performances? Do you see them going on to win the title?
Share your thoughts below.