The U.S. U-20 men got a measuring stick this month, and the measurement was clear. Brazil beat them 2-0 on Oct. 1 at Pinatar Arena in San Pedro del Pinatar, Spain.
For 45 minutes, the Americans were the better team. The U.S. pressed high, though they couldn't turn possession into many chances.
The first half was completely dominated by our opponent.
Then Brazil made adjustments, and the game turned. Right-back Igor Felisberto opened the scoring after the U.S. keeper couldn't hold a cross from the left. Heittor doubled the lead after a long ball from Erick Belé, on a counterattack as the U.S. pushed forward for an equalizer.
U.S. starting XI: De Marzi; Miller, Torquato, Cupps, Hamouda; Brunell, Sanchez, Oyharçabal, Contreras, Klapija, Dills (Randel on).
The Sept. 27 to Oct. 5 camp also included a friendly against Denmark on Oct. 4. It was part of preparation for the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan. AS Roma goalkeeper Giorgio De Marzi and Minnesota United's Kayne Rizvanovich were the keepers on the roster.
