USA beats India 3-0 to open U-17 World Cup

The US opened the U-17 World Cup against the host nation of India, and they (mostly) comfortably cruised to a 3-0 victory. The first goal was a penalty drawn and converted by Josh Sargent, who was tugged down just inside the box. The third goal was a classic US goal: after India knocked a shot off of the bar, Andrew Carleton broke hard and fast and was able to beat everyone to put the game away.

The second goal, however, came from D.C. United’s own Chris Durkin. The ball was headed up after a US corner kick, and Durkin was the first to reach it; he smashed a left footed shot straight at goal. Even though an Indian player was able to get a foot on it, there was no way he was keeping it out.

In addition to the goal, Durkin had a solid game all-around. He played in central defense with NYCFC’s James Sands, and had a number of key blocks, tackles, and interceptions. As the game was winding down, Durkin realized that a shot was on for India, get himself into the perfect position in the box, and was able to head the shot away before it even bother Justin Garces.

The USA will be back in action on Monday, as the meet their old foe, Ghana, at 7:30AM Eastern.