Four Atlanta United academy players featured for the U.S. U17 national team at the Copa de Naciones in Mexico this weekend. Today, Andrew Carleton started while Chris Goslin and Zyen Jones came in off the bench in a 6-3 loss to the tournament winners Mexico. Charlie Asensio was part of the squad that faced Portugal and Qatar earlier in the weekend.
Today’s match was a tough one for the U.S., playing on Mexican soil against a very talented squad. The Americans struggled at times with the intensity, the pressing style Mexico played, and the speed of play.
The Mexican team knew about the hype of Andrew Carleton and his ability to beat defenders on the dribble. He was double teamed almost every time he had the ball at his feet, struggled to find space, and ended up isolated on the left wing too often.
you live and you learn
— Andrew Carleton (@andrewcarleton7) August 28, 2016
Carleton is right, that is why these types of games are important. Playing on the road, in an intense match with pressure, is what makes good players great. Carleton had a strong first game in the tournament, scoring twice against Portugal. This could have been his best highlight from that one though:
This pass pic.twitter.com/UHzO7RMwSi
— J.R. Eskilson (@JREskilson) August 25, 2016
Chris Goslin earned high marks for his play against Portugal in the center of midfield.
USA U17 MNT takes the lead against Portugal off a goal from @andrewcarleton7. Assist from @chrisgoslin17 pic.twitter.com/sISbVRbvLK
— J.R. Eskilson (@JREskilson) August 25, 2016
The tournament was a big deal for forward Zyen Jones. He made his debut for the U17’s and scored in the second match of the tournament against Qatar.
Happy to get my first international start & first goal for USA today against Qatar. Next up Mexico pic.twitter.com/o6wlMoKsUf
— Zyen Jones (@Kingzyen) August 26, 2016
Charlie Asensio started the Qatar game and was a big part of the 2-1 win for the U.S.
This tournament was a big experience for these four young Atlanta United players that will only serve them well in their development.