Chase Adams scored ten goals last night in a 22-0 victory over the U.S. Virgin Islands, and it’s still hard to grasp the scale of that performance. The U.S. Under-17 men’s national team set a new record for the largest margin of victory in a World Cup qualifier, which resonated far beyond the final whistle.
Adams, a 16-year-old forward out of Naperville, Illinois, showed poise and awareness that belied his age. He also shared flashes of that same finishing instinct Erling Haaland showcased when he scored nine goals in a single U20 World Cup match.
Adams opened his account within minutes, then piled on the goals rapidly. His ability to time his runs, as well as combine with teammates in the box, hinted at a player destined for bigger stages. Teammates like Chance Cowell and Jude Terry contributed multiple goals too, but the spotlight never left Adams for long. People at home could only wonder what level of excellence he might reach in the years to come.
Remembering Haaland’s Feat
Haaland’s nine-goal performance for Norway’s U20 squad became the stuff of legend. Now, Adams has thrust himself into that conversation, albeit at the U17 level and against a less formidable opponent. Even so, scoring ten times in a single game is no ordinary feat, and Adams has sparked excitement among American fans who crave a breakout star.
Adams’s family and friends in Illinois must be thrilled to see him excel at such a young age. He signed with Columbus Crew 2 last August, and after last night’s heroics, the conversation around his potential has only intensified.
While some observers say the U.S. Virgin Islands offered little resistance, no one can deny how fiercely focused the Americans looked from start to finish. They’ll face tougher tests soon. St. Kitts and Nevis awaits on Wednesday, followed by a clash with Cuba on Saturday. There won’t be as many easy chances in those matches, which makes last night even more valuable for building confidence.
