Celebrated as the MLS’ teenage soccer prodigy, 16-year-old Cavan Sullivan made history by scoring a record number of goals for an American in his first professional match with the Philadelphia Union.
Sullivan shined in the most significant game of his young career, netting two goals and providing two assists, leading the Union to a decisive 7-0 victory against Defense Force FC in the Concacaf Champions Cup, which is North America’s version of the UEFA Champions League.
“It’s a step in the right direction,” Union coach Bradley Carnell remarked.
With this performance, Sullivan set a record as the youngest American to score in a Concacaf Champions Cup match, achieving the feat at 16 years, 4 months, and 29 days.
“This means a lot to me,” Sullivan expressed. “It felt like it took a while to achieve. I wish I had done it sooner. This is a special moment.”
At the tender age of 14 years and 293 days, Sullivan is believed to have been the youngest player to participate in any major North American professional sports league when he made his debut for the Union in July 2024.
The excitement surrounding Sullivan continues to grow within the MLS and could capture global attention by the time he is expected to transfer to Premier LeagueManchester City at the end of 2027, when he turns 18.
His first goal was a powerful left-footed strike, making him the third-youngest player to score in Concacaf Champions Cup history. He capped off his performance with a tap-in during the 88th minute after being involved in the build-up.
“I’m thrilled to have scored my first goal—actually two of them,” Sullivan said. “It was an incredible experience. More importantly, we kept a clean sheet and progressed in the tournament.”
The Union advanced with a 12-0 aggregate score, following a 5-0 victory over Trinidad and Tobago in the first leg, and will next face Mexican club Club América.
The 5-foot-7, 150-pound Sullivan led the United States to victory in the 2023 Concacaf Under-15 Championship, marking the nation’s first win in the tournament’s history. As the youngest team member, his four goals earned him the Golden Ball award for best player.
Sullivan and the Union are set to play their home opener in the MLS on Sunday against New York City FC.
“I feel like I’ve made a positive impact since I stepped onto the field,” Sullivan remarked. “At this level, everything becomes faster and more challenging.”