U-17 World Cup: Burkina Faso edged by USA

In an even match to kick off action in Group I from the 2025 U-17 World Cup, Burkina Faso conceded late to fall to a 0-1 defeat against the United States on Wednesday.

God damn! Of course it had to be Cavan Sullivan with the goal that breaks things open. This is why the kid gets all the hype…. 1-0 for USA. #U17WC pic.twitter.com/COgXysGpCU

— The Bolivian Yank (@TheBolivianYank) November 5, 2025

USA substitute Cavan Sullivan finished between the legs of goalkeeper Rahim Ouattara for the only goal of the match in the 79th minute. It was a frustrating match for the Burkinabe side who produced a couple of excellent opportunities but failed to convert.

The West African team, who finished fourth place at the 2025 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations to qualify for the World Cup in Qatar, almost took an early lead but were denied by USA goalkeeper Aidan Stokes.

The USA attempted to control possession but made little use of it throughout the match, which created some moments of danger from the Stallions side on the counter-attack and through direct attacks. Set pieces also provided opportunities, with Alassana Bagayogo heading just wide from a free kick floated into the box close to the hour mark.

In the end, however, it was a moment of superior quality that lifted the American team to victory. Borussia Dortmund youth player Mathis Albert created space on the left wing and curled a cross in for Sullivan who controlled the ball well. With Ouattara coming out, the future Manchester City player cleverly finished between the legs of the goalkeeper for the match winner.

Burkina Faso will next clash with Czech Republic in Group I on Saturday before finishing up against Tajikistan next Tuesday.