The U.S. Under-20 men’s national team’s quest of reaching a first FIFA World Cup semifinals since 1989 ended on Sunday with Mikey Varas’ side suffering elimination in the fourth-straight quarterfinal round.
Anderson Duarte and a Josh Wynder own goal propelled Uruguay past the Americans 2-0 on Sunday, advancing the South American side into the final four and sending the USMNT U-20’s home. The Americans’ shutout streak ended after 21 minutes before Wynder’s own goal iced the victory for Uruguay in the second half.
Duarte delivered the breakthrough goal for Uruguay in the 21st minute, sending a left footed shot down the middle of Gaga Slonina’s net for a 1-0 advantage. Juan de los Santos set up Duarte before watching his offensive teammate do the rest from point-blank range.
Wynder’s right footed shot just before halftime was the Americans’ only true offensive chance after missing several other opportunities earlier in the half.
Uruguay got a fortunate bounce for its second and final goal of the match, watching as de los Santos’ cross was deflected into his own net by Wynder. Wynder’s failed clearance gave Uruguay a 2-0 advantage that they wouldn’t relinquish.
Cade Cowell created two good opportunities in the 63rd and 66th minutes respectively, but wasn’t able to sneak a shot past Randall Rodriguez.
Uruguay would hang on to join Italy, South Korea, and Israel in the semifinal round.