Young Socceroo coach Paul Okon has hailed the 2014 NTC Invitational as his rising stars dream of a tournament win on LA Galaxy’s home ground against host nation USA.
Young Socceroo coach Paul Okon has hailed the 2014 NTC Invitational as his rising stars dream of a tournament win on LA Galaxy-s home ground against host nation USA.
“We are looking forward to finishing the tournament with the final match versus USA and for the team to put in another good performance,” Okon told www.socceroos.com.au
“The 10 days here for the tournament has been fantastic as we continue to prepare for the U-20 World Cup qualifiers in October in Myanmar.”
US and the Young Socceroos square off on Friday (Saturday, midday AEST) at StubHub Center in what has become the deciding game of the tournament.
USA is tied with Australia on six points atop the standings, but holds the top spot on goal difference.
With the goal differential situation, the USA can win the event with a draw or victory against Australia.
Australia will face a stern test against the Americans who have also maintained a perfect record after securing a 2-1 victory over Chile and an emphatic 4-0 thrashing of Bermuda.
Paul Okon's men will go into the clash with the hosts full of confidence after pulling off one the best results in the team's history, a stunning 5-4 comeback victory over Chile.
After defeating Bermuda 4-1 in their opening game of the tournament, Paul Okon-s men had to come from 4-2 down to defeat the classy South Americans to make it two from two in the round robin tournament.
“We have played some great football and some outstanding goals have come from this.
“The attitude and performance of the players has been very good and to play the final match tomorrow on the main stadium of the LA Galaxy is a great way to end the tournament,” Okon added.
“The USA has had great results as well so it will be another tough international match.”
The Young Socceroos versus USA will be streamed live on ussoccer.com with the game kicking off at midday AEST on Saturday.