Cavan Sullivan's dreams came true much quicker than most players, but he insists his U.S. men's national team on Saturday, Sept. 26 in Orlando was, indeed, a dream come true.
The 16-year-old Philadelphia Union sensation started the match and was active early, getting a number of touches in the box – and also picking up a 23rd-minute yellow card.
After saying being called in was a pinch-me moment, Sullivan said his debut was "even more of a pinch-me moment. I’ve dreamt of this day my entire childhood," he told TNT after the match. "This means so much to me and my family. It’s an extreme honor to represent my country."
“I’ve dreamed of this day my entire childhood.” 🥹 16-year-old Cavan Sullivan on what it means to become the USMNT’s youngest debutant
since 2006 🔥 pic.twitter.com/vLymamCqM9
— TNT Sports U.S. (@TNTSportsUS) September 26, 2026
He was replaced in 62nd-minute line change with veterans like Sebastian Berhalter and Antonee Robinson checking into the game. In this September-October window, Sullivan hopes to soak up the lessons those England-based players and other new U.S. teammates share.
"I’m just trying to learn every day and get better and better, do more on the field and learn from the older guys and cherish every moment," he said.
How many USMNT players debuted in friendly vs. Peru?
Sullivan was one of 11 players who saw their first minutes with the U.S. in the 4-1 victory over the South American squad and one of eight teenagers who saw minutes in the contest.
There were 13 uncapped players entering this game. There are now only two: Brian Schwake and Cole Campbell.
— Seth Vertelney (@svertelney.bsky.social) 2026-09-26T22:28:33.247Z
Two of those players, Orlando City forward Justin Ellis and New York Red Bulls forward Julian Hall, scored while Borussia Dortmund prospect Mathias Albert won a penalty kick that Malik Tillman converted in the 66th minute.
The young core of Saturday's team is eager to lead a youth movement, even if it means trying to displace regulars who were rested in this camp but will be aiming for a spot on November's roster.
"Justin, Julian, Mathias, all these guys there’s more, but I came up with a lot of them in the youth national team. It’s pretty surreal doing this with them that I’m along side," Sullivan said. "I’m super happy for them."
Sullivan turns 17 on Sept. 28, days before his next opportunity to suit up for the U.S. in a friendly against Chile. The Americans close out the window with matches against Mexico and Canada.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Cavan Sullivan has 'pinch-me moment' starting in USMNT debut
