Sun Oct 12 19:10:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

The United States U-20 men’s national team dominated Italy 3-0 in the Round of 16 of the FIFA U-20 World Cup, securing their place in the quarterfinals for the fifth consecutive tournament. Captain Benjamin Cremaschi scored twice, and Niko Tsakiris added a stunning free-kick goal. The U.S. displayed strong form after a dominant group stage performance. They will face either Morocco or South Korea in the next round.

**News Article:**

**U.S. U-20s Thrash Italy, Advance to World Cup Quarterfinals**

RANCAGUA, Chile – The United States Under-20 Men’s National Team cruised into the quarterfinals of the FIFA U-20 World Cup with a commanding 3-0 victory over Italy on Thursday. The win marks the fifth consecutive time the U.S. has reached this stage of the tournament.

Captain Benjamin Cremaschi, currently playing in Italy on loan to Parma from Inter Miami, led the charge with a brace, scoring the opening goal from a rebound in the first half and sealing the victory with a composed finish late in the game. San Jose Earthquakes midfielder Niko Tsakiris added to the scoreline with a spectacular curling free-kick that left the Italian goalkeeper with no chance.

Marko Mitrović’s side, who topped their group with a record-breaking 13 goals, carried their momentum into the knockout stage. Their attacking prowess and solid defense proved too much for the Italians, who had struggled to find their footing after finishing second in their group.

“We came into this tournament with a goal of making a deep run, and this performance shows we’re on the right track,” said a jubilant Mitrović after the match.

Italy, who had two penalty appeals turned down after VAR reviews, couldn’t muster a response to the Americans’ dominant display. Cremaschi’s late goal extinguished any hopes of a comeback, confirming the U.S.’s place in the quarterfinals.

The U.S. will now face the winner of Thursday’s match between Morocco and South Korea on Sunday for a spot in the semifinals. With their potent attack and determined spirit, the young Americans are proving to be a force to be reckoned with in this World Cup.

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