US U-20 Squad 2019: Players, Stats, And More

by Jhon Lennon 45 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the US U-20 squad from 2019. This team represented the United States at the FIFA U-20 World Cup, and it's always interesting to look back and see where these young talents are now. We'll cover everything from the roster to key stats and memorable moments. So, let's get started!

The Roster: Who Were the Stars?

The 2019 US U-20 squad was a mix of promising young players, many of whom were just starting to make a name for themselves in professional soccer. The roster included players from MLS academies, European clubs, and college programs. Some of the notable names included:

  • Goalkeepers: David Ochoa, Brady Scott, Trey Muse.
  • Defenders: Sergino Dest, Chris Gloster, Aboubacar Keita, Mark McKenzie, Matthew Real, Chris Richards.
  • Midfielders: Edwin Cerrillo, Richard Ledezma, Alex Mendez, Paxton Pomykal, Brandon Servania, Juan Pablo Torres.
  • Forwards: Ayo Akinola, Sebastian Soto, Tim Weah, Ulysses Llanez, Justin Rennicks.

Each of these players brought something unique to the team, and the coaching staff had the challenging task of blending their talents into a cohesive unit. A lot of these players were on the cusp of breaking into bigger roles with their clubs, and the U-20 World Cup was a fantastic platform to showcase their abilities. The goalkeeping options were solid, with Ochoa, Scott, and Muse all vying for the starting spot. The defense was anchored by players like Dest and McKenzie, who have since gone on to have successful careers. The midfield was packed with creative players like Ledezma and Pomykal, while the forwards included exciting talents like Weah and Soto.

The blend of different backgrounds and playing styles made this squad a fascinating one to watch. Some players were already accustomed to the professional environment, while others were still honing their skills in college or academy settings. This diversity added a layer of complexity to the team's dynamics, but it also provided a range of options for the coaching staff. The US U-20 squad aimed to make a significant impact on the international stage.

Key Players and Their Performances

Several players from the 2019 US U-20 squad stood out for their performances during the tournament and in the lead-up to it. Let's take a closer look at some of these key players:

  • Sergino Dest: Dest was one of the most highly-rated players in the squad. His ability to play as a right-back or left-back made him a valuable asset. Even back then, his technical skills, speed, and attacking instincts were evident. He has since gone on to play for Ajax, Barcelona and PSV, showcasing the potential he displayed at the U-20 level.
  • Mark McKenzie: McKenzie was a rock in the center of defense. His physical presence, aerial ability, and leadership qualities were crucial for the team. He played every minute of Philadelphia Union's season the year before, showing how important he was to his club. He now plays in Europe, further proving his quality.
  • Paxton Pomykal: Pomykal was the engine in midfield. His vision, passing range, and work rate helped control the tempo of games. He was already a key player for FC Dallas in MLS, and his experience was vital for the U-20s. He continues to be a valuable player in MLS.
  • Tim Weah: Weah brought pace and flair to the attack. His dribbling skills, finishing ability, and experience playing in Europe made him a constant threat. Having already played for Paris Saint-Germain, he had the most high-profile experience in the squad. He has since continued his career in Europe and has become a regular for the USMNT.

These players not only performed well on the field but also provided leadership and inspiration to their teammates. Their contributions were essential to the team's success in the tournament. Each of them showcased the potential to become future stars, and their performances at the U-20 World Cup were a glimpse of what they could achieve. The performances of these key players highlighted the depth of talent within the US U-20 squad and underscored the importance of youth development programs in the United States.

Tournament Journey: How Far Did They Go?

The 2019 US U-20 squad had a decent run in the FIFA U-20 World Cup. They were drawn into a group with Ukraine, Nigeria, and Qatar. The journey looked like this:

  • Group Stage: The U.S. started strong with a 2-1 win against Nigeria. Then, they faced Ukraine, losing 2-1. They bounced back with a 1-0 victory over Qatar to secure a spot in the knockout stage.
  • Round of 16: In the Round of 16, they faced a tough opponent in Ecuador and were eliminated after a 2-1 defeat.

While they didn't reach the later stages of the tournament, the experience was invaluable for the players. Competing against some of the best young talents in the world provided them with a platform to test their skills and learn from the competition. The tournament also offered them exposure to different playing styles and tactical approaches, which helped broaden their understanding of the game. Although the team was disappointed with the early exit, the experience gained from the tournament was beneficial for their future careers. The US U-20 squad showed glimpses of their potential, and the tournament served as a stepping stone for many of them.

Where Are They Now? Tracking Their Careers

So, where are these players now? Let's take a quick look at what some of the key members of the 2019 US U-20 squad are up to:

  • Sergino Dest: As mentioned earlier, Dest has played for top European clubs like Ajax, Barcelona and PSV. He is a regular player for the USMNT and is regarded as one of the top full-backs in the CONCACAF region.
  • Mark McKenzie: McKenzie made a move to Europe, playing for Genk in Belgium before moving on. He continues to develop as a center-back and is also a USMNT player.
  • Tim Weah: Weah continues his career in Europe, playing for Juventus in Serie A. He has become a key player for the USMNT, contributing with goals and assists.
  • Paxton Pomykal: After battling injuries, Pomykal has continued to play in MLS for FC Dallas. He remains a key player for his club and has shown resilience in overcoming setbacks.
  • Sebastian Soto: Soto has had stints in Europe and South America, and is looking to find a stable club where he can showcase his goal-scoring abilities. He still has the potential to become a valuable player.

Many other players from the squad are playing professionally in MLS, Europe, and other leagues around the world. The 2019 US U-20 squad served as a launching pad for their careers, and it's exciting to see how they have progressed. Some have become established stars, while others are still working to reach their full potential. The journey of these players highlights the importance of youth development and the opportunities that the U-20 World Cup provides.

Memorable Moments and Highlights

The 2019 US U-20 squad had several memorable moments during their tournament journey. Some of the highlights include:

  • The opening win against Nigeria: The 2-0 victory against Nigeria was a strong start to the tournament, setting the tone for their campaign.
  • Ulysses Llanez's goal against Qatar: Llanez scored the winning goal against Qatar, securing their spot in the knockout stage.
  • Sergino Dest's impressive performances: Dest's consistent performances throughout the tournament showcased his potential and attracted attention from top clubs.

These moments, along with the overall experience of competing in the U-20 World Cup, created lasting memories for the players and fans. The tournament provided a platform for these young talents to shine and make a name for themselves. The US U-20 squad left a positive impression, and their journey was filled with moments of excitement and pride. These highlights serve as a reminder of the talent and potential within the U.S. youth soccer system.

The Coaching Staff and Their Influence

The coaching staff played a crucial role in guiding the 2019 US U-20 squad. The head coach and his assistants were responsible for selecting the roster, developing the game plan, and motivating the players. Their leadership and expertise were essential to the team's success.

The coaching staff's influence extended beyond the field. They also played a role in mentoring the players and helping them develop as individuals. They provided guidance on everything from tactical awareness to professional conduct. Their commitment to player development helped create a positive and supportive environment within the team. The impact of the coaching staff can be seen in the success that many of these players have achieved in their careers.

Legacy and Future Prospects

The 2019 US U-20 squad left a lasting legacy, inspiring future generations of young soccer players in the United States. The success of players like Dest, McKenzie, and Weah has shown that American players can compete at the highest level. Their achievements serve as motivation for young players to pursue their dreams and work hard to reach their full potential.

The future of U.S. soccer looks bright, with a growing pool of talented young players emerging from academies and youth programs. The 2019 US U-20 squad played a part in shaping that future, and their contributions will be remembered for years to come. The success of these players is a testament to the progress that has been made in youth development and the increasing competitiveness of American soccer.

So there you have it, guys! A look back at the 2019 US U-20 squad. It's always fun to see where these young talents end up and how they shape the future of soccer. Keep an eye out for the next generation of stars!