Philadelphia, PA
Curacao is tiny — with a population of over 160,000 and covering 171 square miles. Still, its relationship with the Netherlands allowed it to pack its national team with resume-carrying players. And it showed in the quarterfinal game agains the U.S. men.
The U.S. men came out quickly, and it was a good thing that the lone score happened in the first half. At the 25th minute, Weston McKennie headed in the goal assisted by Christian Pulisic. In the second half, however, Curacao’s game dominated. The U.S seemed unable to compete more than three passes at a time, while Curacao positioned wide and dominated possession. A collective sigh of relief could be heard when the referee blew the final whistle
A high point for the U.S. men was Zach Steffen, with five saves on the night.
Supporters of the U.S. men were out in force.
McKennie’s early goal allowed the U.S. to save face, shown here with Tyler Boyd after scoring.
Boyd is a welcome addition addition to the team.
The captain, Shristian Pulisic weaving his way through Curacao’s Darryl Lachman, Michael Maria and Jurich Carolina.
But just as often, Curacao stripped the U.S. of possession, here Pulisic by Lachman
Jordan Morris, who subbed for Boyd, attempting to advance.
Nick Lima coming down hard.
