USWNT U-17 Kicks Off World Cup Campaign with Decisive Victory Over Ecuador
The U.S. Under-17 Women’s National Team (USWNT U-17) began their quest for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup title on a high note today, securing a comfortable 3-0 victory against Ecuador U-17 in their Group C opener at the Mohammed VI Football Academy.
The Americans delivered a commanding performance, with all three goals coming in a dominant first-half display. Defenders Meila Brewer and Nyanya Touray set the tone with powerful strikes, and forward Lauren Malsom capped off the half with a well-taken goal just before the whistle.
First-Half Blitz Secures the Points
The US team, coached by Katie Schoepfer, wasted no time establishing control and pressure in the attacking third.
The opening goal came in the 19th minute from an unlikely source, with defender Meila Brewer stepping up to fire the ball home, giving the U.S. the crucial early lead. The goal settled the team and allowed them to dictate the pace of the match against a determined Ecuadorian side that struggled to create clear-cut chances.
As the half drew to a close, the USWNT U-17 delivered a swift one-two punch that effectively decided the contest. In the 41st minute, another defensive player, Nyanya Touray, found the back of the net, doubling the lead and rewarding the team’s sustained pressure.
The final goal of the half arrived just before the break in the 45th minute, courtesy of Lauren Malsom. The forward’s composed finish gave the U.S. a commanding 3-0 advantage heading into halftime, leaving Ecuador with a mountain to climb.
Professional Second-Half Management
With a healthy lead, the second half saw the U.S. team manage the game with maturity, prioritizing possession and defensive shape to conserve energy for the demanding tournament schedule. While the pace slowed, the U.S. backline, anchored by the goal-scoring contributions of Brewer and Touray, remained resolute, denying Ecuador any chance of mounting a comeback.
The victory earns the U.S. a vital three points in Group C as they aim for a top spot to advance to the knockout stages.
Looking Ahead
The USWNT U-17 will now turn their attention to their next Group C challenge, where they will face China PR on Tuesday, October 21. Ecuador, meanwhile, will look to bounce back when they take on Norway.
Final Score: USA U-17 W 3 – 0 Ecuador U-17 W
Goalscorers:
- Meila Brewer (USA) – 19’
- Nyanya Touray (USA) – 41’
- Lauren Malsom (USA) – 45’
Competition: FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2025 – Group C, Matchday 1
Venue: Mohammed VI Football Academy, Salé, Morocco
