Cavan Sullivan wrote his name in the history books with a sensational goal in the USA’s 3-0 friendly win over arch-rivals Mexico.
The Manchester City-bound prodigy created a moment of pure magic at State Farm Stadium and cemented himself as the youngest goalscorer in US men’s national team history.
Interestingly, Mathis Albert (17 years, 131 days) set the previous milestone against Chile just five days ago. However, Sullivan broke that mark at just 17 years and five days old.
With Mauricio Pochettino’s side already ahead thanks to another young talent – 18-year-old Julian Hall – Sullivan made his decisive goal just after the hour mark.
The Philadelphia Union star, who was brilliantly anticipating the game, intercepted Mexico goalkeeper Raul Rangel’s cross to double the lead before unleashing an audacious strike from distance in the 62nd minute.
Speaking after the game, Sullivan reflected on his dream phase:
“These are the moments you dream about when you’re three, four, five or six years old,” Sullivan said.
“I showed this moment, not just in the last few hours that I knew I had started, but in my whole life.”
Recalling the shot itself, the teenager admitted there were a few tense seconds as the ball floated towards the net.
“I remember just hitting the ball hoping it didn’t hit the post or go through,” Sullivan said.
“When I was in the air, I was nervous and then it was all a blur.”
Shortly after the strike, things took a turn for the worse for Mexico. Substitute Luis Chavez received his marching orders in the 68th minute for shoving his hand in Sebastian Berhalter’s face.
Malik Tillman added a third in the 84th minute to cap off a dominant display, but the night definitely belonged to Sullivan.