USA Defeats Samoa 17-0 in FIFA U-17 World Cup
The United States opened their FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup campaign with a record-setting shutout victory in Morocco.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Soccer
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The USA secured a dominant 17-0 victory against Samoa in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup. Maddie DiMaria led the scoring charge for the United States, which registered 58 total shots throughout the match in Morocco.
Why it matters
This lopsided result sets a significant early benchmark for the tournament as the United States looks to establish dominance in Group E. For Samoa, the match represents a challenging start in only their second-ever appearance at a FIFA tournament.
The USA registered 58 total shots during the match while maintaining a 9-0 lead by halftime. Maddie DiMaria provided six of the goals, including the opening score in the second minute.
The players
Maddie DiMaria
Maddie DiMaria is a forward for the United States youth national team who scored six goals in the opening match of the tournament.
Susahna Peacock
Susahna Peacock is the goalkeeper for the Samoan U-17 team who defended the net during the opening loss to the United States.
FIFA
FIFA is the international governing body for association football that organizes and oversees the U-17 Women's World Cup.
The details
The United States offense overwhelmed the Samoan defense, scoring nine goals in the first half and eight more in the second. Despite the persistent pressure, Samoa goalkeeper Susahna Peacock was credited with several saves throughout the duration of the match.
Timeline
October 20, 2026: USA defeated Samoa 17-0.
October 23, 2026: Samoa plays China PR.
October 26, 2026: Samoa plays Kenya.
Season Trajectory
This victory establishes a clear goal-difference advantage for the United States within Group E of the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup. The lopsided result forces Samoa to immediately pivot their focus toward upcoming matches against China PR and Kenya to keep their tournament hopes alive.
The 17-goal margin provides a massive boost to the United States in the tournament goal-difference standings. Fantasy participants and analysts should note the heavy offensive usage of Maddie DiMaria, who accounted for over one-third of the team's total goals.
The takeaway
The United States demonstrated significant offensive depth by maintaining high intensity throughout both halves of play. For teams participating in major international tournaments, consistent goal production early in the group stage is essential for securing a path to the knockout rounds.
What happens next
Samoa is scheduled to play China PR on October 23, 2026, followed by a match against Kenya on October 26, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on tournament standings and match recaps, visit the Soccer section.
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