USMNT Olympics Elimination: Yanks Topped by Morocco in Quarterfinals

PARIS, France – America’s Under-23 football team made a run for glory, however, fell short of their desinity to dominant Moroccan team today.

The Atlas Lions pounced on the young Yanks from the opening whistle and never relented. Their Herculain effort yielded a resounding 4-0 knockout victory that delighted their passionate in the Maghreb region of the Northwest Africa, and those in sold-out Parc des Princes. 

Much credit should be alloted to their manager, Tarik Sektioui. His game plan, along with his field players’ stamina in the high summer heat and humidity, effectively stifled the American’s attack. Together they deployed a jaw dropping, 90-plus minute high press scheme that the U.S. could not breakthrough.

This is the fifth appearance for the Moroccans at the Olympics since it became an Under-23 competition in 1992. To make it to this match, they trumped Argentina 2-1 after a controversial called-back late goal for Las Albiceleste. In their second match, they fell 2-1 to a dogged Ukraine team. Afterwards, they beat Iraq 3-0.

The die hard Yanks arrived to Paris by beating New Zealand 4-1 and Guinea 3-0. In their opener they were shutout by France, 3-nil. 

A highlight of the tournament included the stellar play of Colorado Rapid’s midfielder Djordje Mihailović. The gifted 25-year-old inserted himself into practically every opportunity to score. He certainly made his family, fans and fellow Americans alike feel proud.

In closing, U.S. head coach Marko Mitrović called the overall experience as a “massive” development experience for both the players and still evolving program.

“We know that the World Cup is the highest tournament. The Olympic Games are the biggest event that humanity created and once you are in the Olympic Games you are in a big spotlight.” He added, “For them to feel that, to live that moment. I think before this tournament, there was uncertainty for them, what that looks like.”

U.S. Soccer Fans will now turn their hopes for a medal to the unbeaten U.S. Women’s Team. They will face a hard-as-nails Japan team in their knockout round, tomorrow. Kick-off is set for 7 a.m. Mountain Time. 

Photo Credit: John Babiak

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