The U.S. U-20 men's national team is seeking its first place in a U-20 World Cup semifinal since 1989, but it has work to do.
The U.S. men are trailing South American U-20 champions Ecuador after a thrilling first half in Poland.
Ecuador, which beat fellow South American side Uruguay to reach the quarterfinals, has been largely dominant, pressing the U.S. and showing a flair for the spectacular. The U.S., with Alex Mendez and Chris Durkin back in the starting lineup after yellow-card suspensions for the round of 16 vs. France, was able to battle back from an early deficit thanks to a goal from Tim Weah, but that was short-lived, after Ecuador scored just before halftime to restore its advantage.