16-Year-Old Cavan Sullivan Becomes Youngest American To Score In CONCACAF Champions Cup

Cavan Sullivan delivered an American scoring record with his first professional goals for the Philadelphia Union.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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Cavan Sullivan, a 16-year-old soccer phenom, made history by becoming the youngest American to score in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Sullivan scored twice and had two assists to lead the Philadelphia Union to a 7-0 win over Defence Force FC, advancing the team to the next round of the tournament.

Why it matters

Sullivan's record-breaking performance at just 16 years old highlights his immense talent and potential, sparking excitement about his future in professional soccer. As the youngest player to ever appear in a major North American professional sports league, Sullivan's rise to stardom is drawing global attention and could lead to a high-profile transfer to a Premier League club.

The details

Sullivan scored his first goal with a left-footed blast into the net, becoming the third youngest goalscorer in CONCACAF Champions Cup history. He added a late tap-in goal to seal the 7-0 victory. The Union advanced 12-0 on aggregate over the two-leg tie and will next face Mexican team Club America.

  • On February 18, 2026, the Philadelphia Union won the first leg 5-0 in Trinidad and Tobago.
  • On February 28, 2026, Cavan Sullivan scored twice and had two assists in the 7-0 second leg win over Defence Force FC.

The players

Cavan Sullivan

A 16-year-old soccer prodigy who became the youngest American to score in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, breaking records and drawing global attention.

Bradley Carnell

The head coach of the Philadelphia Union, who praised Sullivan's performance as "another moment in the right direction" for the young star.

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What they’re saying

“It's another moment in the right direction.”

— Bradley Carnell, Head Coach, Philadelphia Union

“It means a lot. It took a long time in my eyes. I wish I had it sooner. This is a special moment.”

— Cavan Sullivan

“Happy to score my first goal. Two of them, actually. It was pretty special. More important is the clean sheet in the win and we advance.”

— Cavan Sullivan

“I think I've sort of made some good impact when I came in. At this level, things get faster, things get harder.”

— Cavan Sullivan

What’s next

The Philadelphia Union will next face Mexican team Club America in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.

The takeaway

Cavan Sullivan's record-breaking performance at just 16 years old underscores his immense talent and potential, fueling excitement about his future in professional soccer and the possibility of a high-profile transfer to a Premier League club in the coming years.