The U-17 World Cup is almost here, with the USA kicking things off against host nation India this Friday in New Delhi.
Two of NYCFC's very own, Homegrown signing James Sands and Academy prospect Tyler Shaver, will be competing with the Young Yanks and taking on the job of shoring up the American back line as they hunt for World Cup glory.
The Group Stage
If they're to find that glory, they'll have to fight their way through some very stiff competition. Group A competitors Ghana and Colombia have glowing histories at the youth levels of the international game, and opening-day opponents India will have the momentum of their country behind them.
India, though far from a perennial power, have done their best to prepare for such a big stage, traveling to youth tournaments all around Europe and South America to build experience for the World Cup.
Next up for the Americans is the pacey and highly skilled Ghana U-17s, packed with pro potential. It's worth noting that the US National Team and Ghana have a heated history at just about every level of the international game, too. The senior sides have faced off in each of the last three FIFA World Cups.
Colombia, the third and final group stage opponent for the Americans, might be their toughest test. It could also be the one that decides whether or not they make it into the tournament's knock-out rounds. The Colombia squad features loads of tricky, creative players playing mostly in their home country's league. According to those in the know, they may just have the next James Rodriguez in their squad in the form of Yadir Meneses.
The Knock-out Rounds
If the Young Americans make it out of their group, they're in for yet another bout of stiff competition. Should they finish first in the group, they'll face the third place finisher in either Group C, D, or E depending on which of those teams ends up with the best record. If they finish second, however, they'll face off against the second-place finisher in Group C. Odds are, that team will be either Germany or Costa Rica.
How to Watch
Fans can watch the tournament across the Fox Sports networks, as well as NBC Universo and Telemundo in Spanish. The US U-17 National Team's schedule is as follows:
USA v. India: October 6th, 10:30 AM
Watch on Fox Sports 2, Fox Soccer Match Pass, and NBC Universo
USA v. Ghana: October 9th, 7:30 AM
Watch on Fox Sports 2 and Fox Soccer Match Pass
USA v. Colombia: October 12th, 10:30 AM
Watch on Fox Sports 2, Fox Soccer Match Pass, NBC Universo
