The U.S. men’s soccer team suffered a defeat in their initial match at the Paris Olympics, but they made a strong comeback on Saturday, securing a convincing 4-1 win over New Zealand.
This victory was vital for the men’s squad, as they approached Saturday’s match knowing they needed a win to prevent an early elimination from the Summer Games.
Earlier in the week, France had shut out the U.S., while New Zealand triumphed over Guinea, who will be the next adversary for the USMNT.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM
Walker Zimmerman #3 of Team USA celebrates after scoring his team’s second goal during the Men’s group A match against New Zealand at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, held at Stade de Marseille on July 27, 2024. (Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
Only the strongest two teams from each group will progress to the knockout stage in the under-23 tournament.
UNITED STATES WOMEN’S SOCCER TEAM ACHIEVES DOMINANT VICTORY IN INITIAL GAME OF PARIS OLYMPICS
Midfielder Djordje Mihailovic of the USMNT confidently converted a penalty in the eighth minute after Nathan Harriel was fouled in the box by Matthew Garbett.
U.S. defender #02 Nathan Harriel connects with the ball during the men’s group A match against New Zealand at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, hosted at the Marseille Stadium on July 27, 2024. (Clement Mahoudeau/AFP via Getty Images)
Just four minutes later, veteran player Walker Zimmerman extended the lead to 2-0 by scoring from close range during a chaotic moment in front of the net following a free kick.
2024 SUMMER OLYMPICS: LIVE UPDATES
Gianluca Busio added a third goal with a rebound shot at the 30-minute mark and celebrated with a dance alongside teammate Kevin Paredes. Paxton Aaronson later netted the fourth goal in the 58th minute.
The players and supporters of Team USA celebrate at the conclusion of the men’s group A match against New Zealand during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at Marseille Stadium on July 27, 2024. (CLEMENT MAHOUDEAU/AFP via Getty Images)
New Zealand managed to avoid a shutout with a late goal from Jesse Randall.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
The U.S. team’s final group match against Guinea is set for Tuesday in Saint-Etienne, while New Zealand will face France in Marseille.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Stay updated with Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.
