The U.S. Under-19 Men’s National Team continued its impressive start to the 2026 CONCACAF U-20 Championship, defeating El Salvador 3-0 on Tuesday night at Estadio Universitario BUAP in Puebla, Mexico. The victory gives the Americans six points through two Group A matches and puts them in prime position to win the group heading into Friday’s finale against Cuba.
The United States dictated play from the opening whistle, using its pace on the wings to create several early scoring opportunities. Forward Dino Klapija nearly opened the scoring before eventually earning and converting a penalty in the 35th minute. After Chris Applewhite’s headed challenge forced a defensive mistake, Klapija beat goalkeeper Oliver Alegria to the loose ball before being brought down in the penalty area. He calmly buried the spot kick into the upper-left corner for his second goal of the tournament.
The first half also saw an unfortunate setback for the Americans as dynamic winger Nimfasha Berchimas exited with a calf injury after a hard challenge in the 19th minute. Dylan Vanney entered in relief and nearly doubled the lead before halftime with a dangerous free kick that required an excellent save.
The U.S. continued to control possession after the break and earned another penalty in the 61st minute when Jaidyn Contreras was fouled inside the box after racing onto a long pass from Colin Guske. Ruben Ramos converted from the spot for the second consecutive match, blasting his effort inside the right post to extend the lead to 2-0.
The Americans sealed the victory in the 89th minute on a set piece. Xanti Oyharcabal delivered a free kick to the back post where Applewhite redirected the ball into the middle of the box, allowing Christopher Cupps to finish from close range for the tournament’s sixth U.S. goal.
Statistically, the United States dominated nearly every category, holding 71 percent possession while outshooting El Salvador 15-3 and limiting its opponent to zero shots on target. Through two matches, Gonzalo Segares‘ squad has scored six goals without conceding one, making the Americans both the tournament’s highest-scoring team and one of its stingiest defenses.
The U.S. closes Group A play on Friday, July 31, against Cuba. A draw or victory will secure first place in the group and continue the team’s strong march toward the knockout stage.
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