After joining the U.S. Under-20 men’s national team late, Mikkel Diskerud helped notched the lone goal in a 1-0 win against Egypt in a friendly.  The Norwegian-American is still considering which nation he will represent but looks to be leaning toward the red and white of the U.S.  Soccer 365’s spoke to the midfielder.

By Sean Heffernan

More good news is in store for US Soccer after its surprise run into Confederations Cup final this past week, as Norwegian-American Mikkel Diskerud led the United States U-20 squad with the lone goal in the 1-0 victory over Egypt over the weekend. The 18-year-old has been on the fence about what country he will play for internationally, but it appears that he may be leaning towards the Red, White, and Blue. Mikkel’s nickname “Mix” suits the midfielder as he is the child of a Norwegian father and an American mother making him eligible to play for both countries. Diskerud was a late addition to the squad prepping for the U-20 World Cup taking place in Egypt next September. Diskerud commended US Soccer stating “The US has a great staff and has been very professional towards me”.

The victory in Alexandria for the U-20s was perhaps swept over by the American senior squad garnering worldwide attention in South Africa after defeating world power Spain. Mix was delighted in the United States upset in South Africa. 

“When I heard that the US won over Spain I didn't believe it! Then I remembered that Americans can do whatever they set their mind on. I am very impressed though” remarked Diskerud before the match against the Pharaohs. “I don't know how my chances are of making the squad for the World Cup. I know there are a lot of great players who I need to compete with. I am just happy to be here in Egypt now, and able to say ‘Hi’ to the team” said the Stabaek playmaker.

Mikkel spent some time in Stabaek’s youth program before becoming a regular on the Men’s team this year. After a slow start, the club has moved itself into sixth place in Norwegian Premier League table thanks in part to Mikkel’s contributions on the field. “We have stepped it up a notch the last weeks, and played some great "football" as we call it in Norway. We are going into second qualification round in the Champions League soon.” In a match earlier this year against Tromsø, Mix volleyed an electric ball from the top of the opposing box into the corner of the net helping Stabaek to a 2-0 victory. The highlight of Mikkel’s brilliant strike made the rounds of US soccer forums adding to American soccer fans longing to see the midfielder capped by US head coach Bob Bradley.

“Every goal is special to me because of different feelings. That was my first goal in the home stadium, so I had the opportunity to celebrate with the fans (Stabaek). And the goal itself wasn't that bad either” joked the Oslo native.

Immediately after the match in Alexandria with the US squad Mikkel jettisoned back to Norway to help his club as a second half substitute defeat Brann Bergen 2-1.

Diskerud’s play should interest the US senior side as the squad lacks a true winger after the recent disappointing play of DeMarcus Beasley. U-20 coach Thomas Rongen will certainly have Mix on his radar for the coming U-20 FIFA World Cup after his performance in Egypt. Mikkel Diskerud’s international future may still be up in the air, but Sam’s Army has a lot to be hopeful for in the young footballer. Perhaps the busy summer for the national team will provide an opportunity for American hopeful to see “Mix” across the back of a US kit.