Bulls Abroad: Miazga, U20 USMNT Advance in World Cup

Despite a scoreless first half and being outplayed in the second half, the U20 USMNT defeated Colombia 1-0 in the U20 World Cup. The win advanced the US into the quarterfinals for a contest with Serbia on June 14th.

The scoreless tie was broken in the 58th minute by Rubio Rubin after an initial shot by Paul Arriola outside the 18 was blocked by a Columbian defenseman, but not fully cleared.  Rubin hit a near-post shot from the six-yard box to put the US ahead for good.  Colombia didn't go down without a fight though.  They outshot the US 24-8, but the US was able to keep the net clear for the whole game.

It didn't seem like it was all going to go the US's way.  In the 81st minute, FC Dallas midfielder Kellyn Acosta brought down a Colombian attacker in the box.  A penalty kick was called and Acosta found himself a second yellow of the day.  By the time the kick was taken, two more minutes went by.  In the 83rd minute, striker Jarlan Barrera stepped up and hit a low shot to left lower corner.  US goalkeeper, Zack Steffen, guessed right to deny Barrera the equalizer.  Steffen finished the day with three saves and was voted co-MOTM with Rubin.  Acosta will miss the next match.

New York Red Bulls starting center back, Matt Miazga played all 90 minutes.  His best (and possibly worst) performance for the US came in the 50th minute.  After getting beat by Steven Lucumi, Lucumi's shot was stopped by Steffen, but still remained in front of the goal.  Miazga cleared the ball just before Colombia pounced on it to put themselves in front 1-0.

The U20 USMNT will face a very lucky Serbia on Sunday June 14th in Auckland.  Serbia defeated Hungary in their Round of 16 match: 2-1, after extra time.  They were two minutes from PKs when Hungary surrendered an own goal.  Serbia lost their opening group stage match, but have won their last three straight.

As long as the US keep playing in this tournament, the rest of their games will be played in Auckland.