A highly talented Whitecaps FC U-17 academy team has headed off to Dallas for the 2019 Generation adidas Cup. The ‘Caps kick off the action on Sunday, and conclude group play on Wednesday vs. Mexico’s Deportivo Toluca.
There are a number of top young players to watch. Below are just a few names you might be hearing about.
NATIONAL TEAM TALENT
Five ‘Caps were recently called up to Canada’s U-17 national team for a training camp in Mexico ahead of the 2019 Concacaf U-17 Championship in May.
- Simon Colyn, midfielder
- Nathan Demian, centre back
- Gianfranco Facchineri, centre back
- Kam Habibullah, midfielder
- Damiano Pecile, midfielder
Also gearing up for the Concacaf U-17 Championship?
- Chituru Odunze, goalkeeper
Odunze is representing the United States and was on trial at English Premier League club Leicester City FC earlier this year.
BACK FROM ENGLAND
Five U-17s played with the ‘Caps Development Squad on their recent three-match tour in England, facing AFC Bournemouth, Brighton & Hove Albion, and Merstham FC. In addition to Colyn, Habibullah, and Pecile, there was also:
- Emiliano Brienza, midfielder
- Brandon Cambridge, winger
Brienza set up a goal on a free kick versus Brighton, then played Cambridge through for the assist on this winner against Merstham.
COMING IN HOT
The ‘Caps head into the tournament off the heels of a 3-0 victory over defending Development Academy national champions Seattle Sounders FC last week.
The pick of the litter was this fine finish from striker Massud Habibullah.
For the latest from the tournament, follow @WFCAcademy on Twitter and check mlssoccer.com/gacup.
