Heartbreak for the U.S. Women’s U-20 Team
It was a tough day for the U.S. Women’s U-20 team as their journey at the U-20 Women’s World Cup came to an end. Despite a strong run, the Americans fell 1-0 to North Korea in the semifinals on Wednesday. This defeat means the best they can hope for now is a bronze medal, as they prepare to face either Japan or the Netherlands in Saturday’s third-place match.
Tired Legs After a Stunning Comeback
You could sense the exhaustion in the U.S. team after their incredible quarterfinal win against Germany. In that game, the Americans managed two goals in just 90 seconds during stoppage time before winning on penalties. It felt like that thrilling victory took a toll, as the U.S. team spent most of the first 75 minutes of the semifinal chasing North Korea around the pitch. The effort wasn’t quite the same, and it showed.
North Korea Takes Control Early
North Korea grabbed the lead in the 22nd minute and never really let go. They dominated with a 17-7 shot advantage, keeping the U.S. defense and goalkeeper Teagan Wy on their toes. Wy made several key saves early in the second half to keep the game close. But offensively, the U.S. struggled to find their rhythm. Pietra Tordin had the Americans’ best chance in the 78th minute, but North Korea’s goalkeeper made a great diving save to deny them the equalizer.
A Tough Moment to Swallow
When the final whistle blew, the U.S. players stood in disappointment, watching North Korea celebrate their victory. It was a bitter end, with some players visibly upset. However, this performance is still the U.S. team’s best at the U-20 Women’s World Cup since they finished fourth back in 2016. After failing to make it out of the group stage in the last two tournaments, reaching the semifinals was a significant step forward for this young team.
