FRISCO, Texas - Jesús Ferreira's long-awaited USMNT debut drew widespread praise as the 19-year-old started and played 62 minutes in the team's 1-0 win over Costa Rica on Saturday afternoon.
Tom Bogert of mlssoccer.com liked what he saw from Ferreira as he led the USMNT's front line as a lone striker, much like he did for FC Dallas in the first half of last season.
Ferreira did his usual trick of floating between the opposition's lines, dropping deeper to pull Costa Rica's center backs out of position and making space for his teammates. It's an aspect of his game that makes him dangerous as both an out-and-out forward and attacking midfielder.
Although he didn't get on the scoresheet, Ferreira had a few eye-catching moments, namely a pinpoint through-ball that put D.C. United's Paul Arriola in on goal. Arriola's shot was saved but Ferreira's clever pass didn't go unnoticed.
Ferreira wasn't the only FC Dallas product on show. Fellow Homegrown Brandon Servania also made his international debut, subbing in for Brenden Aaronson in the 66th minute. Reggie Cannon played the full 90 minutes at his usual right back spot and continued to show why he's become Gregg Berhalter's first choice in the position over the past year.
