Published 6/19/2011 11:12:36 PM by Shane Barrow from soccermogul

The US Under 17s opened the FIFA U17 World Cup with a very impressive 3-0 win over the Czech Republic on Sunday afternoon in Mexico.  Early goals in both halves sent the Americans on their way to the important win against what is supposed their main competition to win the group.

It was a wonder-goal that got the US off to the dream start.  A lazy pass in the back was intercepted by US #10 Alejandro Guido who took a touch and let loose a lazer from 25 yards out.  The ball zipped past the helpless Czech keeper giving the US the lead in the 5th minute.

From there the game was quite competetive as both sides battled for supremacy.  The Americans were solid in the midfield and had Kellyn Acosta coming out of the back getting forward well.  The Czechs got more footing in the match as the half went on though as they pressed for the tying goal.  American keeper Kendall McIntosh was up to the task as he kept the Czechs scoreless.

The second half opened just like the first as the US struck in just 7 minutes.  Paul Arriola made a great run deep into the Europeans box where he cut the ball back for Esteban Rodriguez to put home.  The Americans were comfortable from there as they were content to keep possession and make their opponents chase the game.

Late on substitute Alfred Koroma put his stamp on the game when he cut left and fired a low shot from just outside the box into the far side netting.  

"It's a very important result for us because it’s our first game of the tournament and against a great European team in Mexico," said head coach Wilmer Cabrera.  "It's very positive for the kids. They were nervous like every kid, for sure. They played the game, made themselves feel comfortable, and got the result by playing well. That’s important and that’s going to give us confidence to continue improving throughout the tournament."

Next up for the US Under 17s is their second group match on Wednesday against Uzbekistan who were blasted 4-1 by New Zealand earlier today.

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