The United States U-20 team kicked off their World Cup in Chile with a result that made history. A 9-1 demolition of New Caledonia wasn’t only their biggest win ever at the tournament, it also marked the breakout of Benjamin Cremaschi. On loan at Parma from Inter Miami, the midfielder struck three times in just 37 minutes and finished with five goal involvements. He became only the third American to score a hat trick at this level, joining Chris Faklaris and Freddy Adu.
Cremaschi himself kept his excitement in check. “I’m happy with the three goals and two assists. It’s an exciting moment, but we need to stay focused on what’s next,” he told FIFA. That balance of joy and caution summed up the opener: a stunning result that still can’t lead to complacency. The next opponent is France.
The French test ahead
Les Bleus opened with a 2-1 win over South Africa, secured by Lucas Michal’s late strike. It wasn’t flashy, but it was enough. And this is the kind of matchup that separates genuine contenders from early surprises. Cremaschi knows it. “We watched their game earlier, and they looked good. The most important thing is to keep our feet on the ground and think about how I can help the team,” he said.
That measured tone is exactly what the U.S. will need. France brings details and demands that didn’t matter against a debutant side. A defense barely challenged by New Caledonia will now have to deal with stronger, sharper opposition.
Between records and reality
The 9-1 scoreline added to the momentum of Marko Mitrović’s group, already boosted by a strong Concacaf campaign. But history shows that the U-20 World Cup punishes teams who lean too heavily on big opening wins. What counts is whether you can hit the same standard when the level rises.
That’s why this record-breaking start should be seen as fuel, not the destination. Cremaschi’s name is already etched in the history books, but his words captured the mood: the tournament really begins against teams like France. And if the U.S. wants to repeat their 2019 success, when they knocked the French out—the lesson is simple. Talent might light the path, but it’s discipline and focus that carry you through to the end.