US advances at U17 World Cup despite losing to Colombia

MUMBAI, India – The United States advanced to the round of 16 at the under-17 World Cup despite losing 3-1 to Colombia on Thursday.

Both teams finished on six points along with Ghana, which won Group A on goal difference. Colombia claimed second spot after its head-to-head result against the U.S., which also advanced as one of the best third-place teams.

Juan Vidal shot Colombia ahead in Mumbai as early as the third minute before George Acosta equalized in the 24th off an impressive pass from Andrew Carleton.

Juan Penaloza made it 2-1 halfway through the second half with a finely taken free kick and then set up Dieber Caicedo with a cross in the 87th to seal the game.

Earlier, Ghana routed host India 4-0 to finish top of Group A. India failed to advance in the tournament.

Paraguay powered through Group B with three wins from three games after beating Turkey 3-1.