The USA dropped a 2-1 decision to Denmark in its opening game of the U-18 Elite division at the 2009 Milk Cup in Northern Ireland. A goal by Virginia-bound Will Bates was all the Americans could muster after conceding two goals to the Danes in the first half hour of the game.

"This was a good experience to play an older team at the international level," said Coach Mike Matkovich. "I was pleased with the performance overall, but disappointed as we had more chances than our opponent."

Bates' goal came as the result of a well played ball into the box from Jose Altamirano, who served an excellent cross from the left flank.

Update: The team tie Germany on Wednesday and will play Israel in a placement match on Friday.

July 27 in Coleraine
USA 1 Denmark 2. Goals: Bates 52; Christiansen 5, Gytkjaer 29.
USA -- MacMath, Sarkodie, Barson (Petts, 85), Valentin, Del Piccolo (Sinclair, 65), Prozeller, Millington (Byass, 39), Okugo, Garza, Altamirano, Bates (Finley, 80).