The U.S. Team looked solid in the first have of play despite the muddy and slippery field conditions. Forward Omar Gonzalez (Soquel, Calif.) was a tough match for the Bolivian defenders. Gonzalez showed his scoring prowess with the support of his teammate’s aggressive play with a goal in the 34th minute of action and another in the 41st minute of play. The two Gonzales goals put the U.S. on top at the half 2-0, as U.S. goalkeeper Warren Gross (Greenfield Center, N.Y.) and the U.S. defense held off all Bolivian surges.

After the halftime break the fortunes turned for Team USA as the Bolivian offense stepped up the pressure. After holding the Bolivians scoreless in the first stanza, the U.S. Team allowed four unanswered goals. The Bolivians hit the back of the net in the 47th, 56th, 63rd and 81st minutes of play and captured the game with a final score 4-2.

There was an opportunity for a goal when Bolivia fouled a U.S. player in the goal box and the officials granted a penalty kick. Michael Stephens (Naperville, Ill.) took the crucial shot for the U.S. squad, but the ball was found by the Bolivian goalie as the crowed howled.

Head Coach Bob Jenkins said the loss was a difficult one to endure, but now the team must realign their focus and set their sights on playing Mexico.

“This was a difficult loss, but we need to get back on our toes,” said Head Coach Bob Jenkins. “We need to be ready to compete and ready to play versus Mexico.”

The U-18 Men’s Soccer Team takes to the field again July 21, 2007 versus the team from Mexico as pool play continues in Group B. The game will take place at the Maracana Stadium at 10 a.m local.

2007 Pan American Games Men’s Soccer Schedule

July 15, 2007
USA 2, Venezuela 1- Centro de Futebol do Zico

July 18, 2007
USA 2, Bolivia 4- Complexo Miecimo da Silva

July 21, 2007
USA vs. Mexico- Maracana Stadium

July 24, 2007
Semifinals TBD- Maracanã Stadium

July 27, 2007
Finals TBD- Maracanã Stadium