Top Stories

U.S. U-17’s to host England, Australia, and Brazil in 2014 Nike International Friendlies

HajiWright-U-17USMNT

 

Photo by ISIPhotos.com

By RYAN TOLMICH

After emerging victorious in 2013, the U.S. Under-17 Men’s National Team is set to defend its crown in the 2014 Nike International Friendlies.

The tournament, which is set to take place between Nov. 28 to Dec. 3 in Lakewood Ranch, Florida, will see the U.S. host England, Australia and Brazil for a trio of contests to be broadcast live on USSoccer.com.

“Its a great tournament that we’ve put on here, and we’re looking forward to it because its very good competition, with some of the best national teams in the world participating in the tournament,” U.S. U-17 head coach Richie Williams said. “We’re looking forward to get out there and play well and hopefully repeat as champions.”

The four sides will play three sets of doubleheaders with the U.S. playing in each sets’ later game. The U.S. will start play with a clash with England on Nov. 28, before taking on Australia and Brazil on Nov. 30 and Dec. 2, respectively.

This year’s event marks the tournament’s 12th edition, with the U.S. emerging victorious last time out behind LA Galaxy Academy product Haji Wright, who won the tournament’s Golden Boot, as well as Christian Pulisic, who was recognized as Most Valuable Player.

In addition, the event will feature the Academy Winter Showcase that will run from Nov. 29 to Dec. 2 for the U-17/18s and Nov. 30 to Dec. 3 for the U-15/16s.

Here’s a closer look at the schedule for the 2014 Nike International Friendlies:

Friday, Nov. 28

Australia vs. Brazil, 3 p.m. ET

USA vs. England, 6 p.m. ET

Sunday, Nov. 30

Brazil vs. England, 3 p.m. ET

USA vs. Australia, 6 p.m. ET

Tuesday, Dec. 2

England vs. Australia, 3 p.m. ET

USA vs. Brazil, 6 p.m. ET

Which of the tournament’s games interests you most? What players would you like to see feature for the U.S.?

Share your thoughts below.

Comments

Leave a Comment