Camp Update Heading Into The Tournament
Julian Hall (USYNT U17)
The 2025 cycle for the U.S. U-17 Men’s Team has been defined by decisive wins, revealing camps, and meaningful friendlies ahead of a globally expanded FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar—now featuring 48 teams instead of the former 24, doubling the field and offering more players a shot at the world
March 2025 – Costa Rica (Concacaf Qualifiers):
The U.S. swept their Concacaf qualifying group with an astounding 31–0 goal tally, including stunning performances against Cuba, St. Kitts and Nevis, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.June 2025 – Valencia, Spain (International Camp):
The team wrapped up their three-match camp with a 3–0 victory over Japan. Before that, they played three tough contests:A 3–2 loss to Sweden, where Chase Adams delivered a brace to show his scoring instincts.
A 2–2 draw with Canada, decided by a 5–4 penalty shootout in Canada’s favor.
Finally, a 3–0 win over Japan sparked by a brace from Jamir Johnson.
September 2025 – Netherlands (Second-to-Last Camp):
A 21-player roster is set to train from September 1–8 in Noordwijk, culminating in two friendlies against the Netherlands on September 5 and 8, part of the final tune-ups before heading to Qatar. The USYNT came in with a lot of expectation as this was truly the first time the USYNT had a near full strength roster heading into the tournament. Stars like Nimfasha Berchimas, Chase Adams, Cavan Sullivan, and Mathis Albert were all named to the squad. Unfortunately, the camp did not go too smoothly as two losses at the hands of the Netherlands followed. The USYNT lost 8-2 on Monday to the Netherlands U18s, and the performance was cited to be worse than scoreline by spectators.
Playing Identity
Coach Segares has shaped the U-17s into a high-pressing, attack-minded unit. They thrive on quick ball recoveries and dynamic movement in the final third. Adams is the focal point up top, but he’s supported by a midfield triangle that rotates between creators and destroyers. Carrizo is the technician, while Terry and Martinez provide defensive bite. Out wide, wingers like Kortkamp stretch defenses, creating the vertical channels this system demands.
Defensively, Hamouda’s left-footed distribution gives balance, while Cupps and Guimaraes provide physicality and aerial strength. The team is not without flaws — lapses against Sweden showed vulnerability to direct balls and late runners — but the collective buy-in to pressing and transition gives them a competitive edge.
What Lies Ahead
September’s camp in the Netherlands is the final rehearsal before Qatar. Facing the Dutch will be one of the toughest tests yet. Unlike Concacaf opponents or even Japan, the Netherlands bring European pedigree and tactical nuance. These friendlies will be crucial for sharpening defensive rotations, finalizing the starting XI, and giving fringe players one last chance to prove they belong.
The U.S. enters the World Cup with a favorable group on paper, but history shows that underestimating opponents can be costly. Burkina Faso and Tajikistan, while not traditional powers, thrive in youth tournaments with fearless play. Czechia, meanwhile, brings structure and discipline. Advancement to the knockout rounds is the expectation — but how far the U.S. can go will depend on whether Adams continues his scoring tear, Carrizo dictates the midfield, and the defense shores up its vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
The U.S. U-17 Men’s National Team isn’t just qualifying for tournaments anymore — they’re aiming to compete deep into them. With a proven scorer in Adams, creative spark in Carrizo, and a well-drilled supporting cast, this team has the potential to be one of the most impactful U-17 groups in U.S. history. The upcoming months will determine if they can translate camp chemistry and qualifying dominance into a statement run on the world’s stage.
