Bulls Abroad: Metzger, U23 USMNT Lose Toulon Opener to France

The U23 USMNT dropped the opener of the Toulon Tournament to hosts and tournament favorites, France, 3-1 on Wednesday afternoon.  The US's defense looked highly unorganized to start off the game and gave up goals in the 10th, 11th and 21st minutes.  They had a tough time of getting the strikers and wingers the ball to create scoring chances.

RBNY II midfielder, Daniel Metzger started for the US and played all 80 minutes (Toulon plays 40-minute halves).  For the most part, Metzger was just a role player.  The bad: he turned the ball over to facilitate France's first goal.  The good: in the 49th minute, he had a cross which was just gathered by the French goalkeeper on the ground, almost squirting away towards on onrushing teammate, but held onto.

USMNT senior player, Jordan Morris, scored the US's only goal in the 65th minute with a calm touch to the far post.

The U23s look to reverse the result when they take on the Netherlands on Friday 5/29 at 11:00 am EDT.  The Netherlands also scored three first half goals to down Costa Rica 3-2 in their Toulon opener.  France has won 11 of the 42 Toulon Tournaments played, with their most recent championship occurring in 2007.