U.S. U19 Women Lose to Netherlands in Tournament Opener

The U.S. Under-19 Women’s National Team suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat to the Netherlands in their opening match of the L’Albir U-19 Women’s International Tournament in Spain, despite an early breakthrough from rising star Addison Halpern.

Halpern, who was the youngest player on the 2024 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup roster, wasted no time making her mark on the game. Just four minutes in, she capitalized on goalkeeper Caroline Birkel’s long punt, outmuscling defenders to win possession before skillfully beating a Dutch center back in a one-on-one situation and slotting home the finish.

The early lead wouldn’t hold, however, as the Netherlands found an equalizer just before halftime. The Dutch side then completed their comeback with what proved to be the game-winner in the 71st minute.

Building for the Future

This tournament provides crucial international experience for a team that will form the foundation of the team aiming to qualify for the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Poland.

All players on the roster were born in 2006, making them eligible for this U19 cycle before transitioning to the U20 program in August.

“What we’re seeing is the development pipeline in action,” notes women’s soccer analyst Maya Rodriguez. “These early challenges against top European competition are exactly what these young players need to grow their game at the international level.”

Tournament Format and Next Steps

The young Americans will continue their tournament journey with matches against England on Sunday, February 23, at Estadio Antonio Solana in Alicante, followed by a clash with host nation Spain on Wednesday, February 26, at Guillermo Amor Stadium Alicante.

The tournament follows a round-robin format where each team plays against each other once. Teams earn three points for a win and one for a tie, with tiebreakers determined by goal difference, goals scored, and finally Fair Play Ranking if needed.

“Despite the opening loss, there’s plenty to build on,” says youth development coach Tessa Williams. “Halpern’s goal showcased exactly the kind of individual brilliance and competitive drive that makes this age group so exciting to watch develop.”

The team’s response against England will be telling, as they look to bounce back and demonstrate the resilience needed for future success on the international stage.

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