These three games provided depth attacking options with a chance to make a strong impression ahead of the U-17 World Cup. Outside of Jamir Johnson and Chase Adams, few seized the opportunity. Even Johnson was inconsistent, but his standout moments showed his potential as a dangerous attacking piece.

Four top attacking prospects were unavailable for this tournament: Cavan Sullivan (Philadelphia Union), Mathis Albert (Borussia Dortmund), Julian Hall (New York Red Bulls), and Nimfasha Berchimas (Charlotte FC). For the U.S. to make a deep run in the U-17 World Cup, at least two of them will likely need to be available—ideally three. However, the tournament coincides with the MLS playoffs, meaning Sullivan, Hall, and Berchimas could be unavailable if they play key roles for their clubs. Albert’s participation will depend on Borussia Dortmund’s decision to release him.

If Sullivan is available, his role may depend on the roster. If the team lacks wingers, he could slot in as a right-winger. Otherwise, head coach Gonzalo Segares might deploy a dual No. 10 setup with Sullivan and Maximo Carrizo ahead of Jude Terry.

Berchimas, who played in the last U-17 World Cup, seems the least likely to feature again, though he may not be a key player for Charlotte FC this season. Hall would be a valuable addition given his versatility as both a winger and a vertical striker.

Ultimately, it was clear that Carrizo, Adams, and Johnson needed more attacking support.

Terry is one of the top players in this age group, but there’s no clear favorite to partner with him in the midfield duo. Cooper Sanchez currently leads the competition—he was solid but not particularly standout. Luca Moisa and Cristiano Oliveira had inconsistent performances but remain in contention. Beyond them, options are limited, aside from two top 2009-born prospects, KK Spivey (San Jose Earthquakes) and Adri Mehmeti (New York Red Bulls), whom U.S. Soccer may be hesitant to play up.

Another possibility is a double No. 10 setup above Terry, with Maximo Carrizo, Cavan Sullivan, Leo Gitau, Gustavo Caraballo Delgado, and Jack Mize as potential options.

Overall, the team struggled in the final third, but Carrizo stood out with his poise, polish, and instincts. He provided an incisive assist and scored a goal with a well-timed run. As the only high-profile attacker in the squad, his presence proved critical in the deciding game.

The United States faced little pressure in their own final third, leaving limited insight into the backline’s overall solidity. However, we did learn that Gonzalo Segares’s preferred defensive unit consists of right-back Gio Villa (Real Salt Lake), left-back Pedro Guimarães (Orange County SC), and center-backs Christopher Cupps (Chicago Fire) and Kike Martinez (LA Galaxy). These four offer the highest ceiling and, if a must-win game were on the line, would be the safest bet.

Ramiz Hamouda (Birmingham Legion) impressed on the ball and brings upside, along with valuable left-back coverage, making him a strong candidate for the squad. Guimarães clearly established himself as the top left-back over Jordan Griffin, whose underwhelming performances—combined with Hamouda’s versatility—could open the door for another right-back option, such as Oliver Tan (Famalicão).

Ian James (Sporting KC) and Adrian Sanders (LAFC) remain in contention at center-back. Additionally, keep an eye on Nico Rivera, who recently signed with FC Cincinnati. He represented Puerto Rico in this tournament but could make a case for inclusion in the U.S. squad in the coming months.

As expected, the United States dominated possession and chance creation in all three games. However, they lacked sharpness in the final third and identified position groups that need further evaluation, particularly on the wing. This group will likely convene four to five more times before the U-17 World Cup.