The United States will face England in the third-place match at the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup today,Sunday at Estadio Olímpico Félix Sánchez in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
The two nations have a long history at the senior level, but this will be the first time the two meet in the U-17 Women’s World Cup. Both countries will seek to leave the tournament with their best finishes since the 2008 edition.
The U.S. rebounded from a loss in its opening match to reigning champions Spain, one of the finalists in this year’s tournament, with three consecutive victories to reach the semifinals for the first time in nearly 16 years.
Despite losing a tightly contested match to finalists Korea DPR, the United States will seek to leave Santo Domingo with its first bronze medal in the U-17 WWC.
U.S. captain Kennedy Fuller has been a key player with three goals and two assists, making her one of the most important contributors in chance creation. Mel Barcenas co-leads the U.S. in scoring, alongside Fuller, with three goals.
The United States defense has also impressed with three clean sheets under goalkeeper Evan O’Steen. Defender Katie Scott was imposing in the semifinals to limit the team’s loss to one goal. The U.S. back line will be key for the nation to reach the podium for the first time since the inaugural edition.
England lost 3-nil to defending champions Spain in the semifinals. The Young Lionesses have shown resilience in the tournament, coming from behind against Mexico in their second match of the group stage and overcoming Japan on penalties in the quarterfinals.
Zara Shaw has two goals to lead England in scoring. Also key for England is goalkeeper Hope McSheffrey, who has 11 saves and one clean sheet in four appearances. A bronze medal finish would mark England’s most successful result after finishing with fourth place in 2008.
