US U-20 beats Argentina in Busan, South Korea

I was on vacation this weekend so you have to imagine my surprise and delight in reading this morning that the US beat Argentina in a youth tournament. True, this doesn't mean a whole lot in the grand scheme of things, but anytime we can beat a youth powerhouse, I'm happy. The US finished last in the tournament since they had the worst goal differential while South Korea clearly enjoyed the home field advantage, winning all three of their games.

As I've said before, the experience these kids get playing the world's best is priceless. The fact that a majority of the team is made up of professional players, makes it even better. Coach Rongen is working towards the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup qualifying which will take place early in 2007 in Panama and Mexico. Playing in these kinds of events helps the coaching staff evaluate talent and put together the qualifying team.

It seems Nik Besagno needs to work on his temper. In a three minute span he earned his first and second yellow card resulting in a red. He kicked the ball away after being called for a foul. According to ussoccer.com the Americans started to unravel once Besango was sent off. In matches that matter, this kind of poor sportsmanship can't be tolerated and I hope Nik learned that after his red card.

Overall, good to see the Americans get a win against a powerhouse, especially when playing almost an entire half with 10 men and 26 total shots in the match.