Sullivan wonder goal ties historic record, fuels USMNT call-up talk

Cavan Sullivan produced a moment of magic on Sunday, scoring a stunning game-winning goal to inspire Philadelphia Union to a 3-1 victory over Red Bull New York and further fuel speculation over a possible United States national team call-up.

The 16-year-old sensation stole the spotlight at Sports Illustrated Stadium with a superb individual effort, cutting inside before unleashing a clinical finish to double Philadelphia's lead.

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It was Sullivan's second goal in as many matches and another standout moment in what has been a remarkable breakthrough campaign for one of American football's most highly rated young talents.

“The goal that he scored, it is what he is capable of doing,” Philadelphia interim head coach Ryan Richter said.

“It is in these one-versus-one situations that he is different. And we want to give him the freedom to express himself.”

The strike also carried historic significance. Sullivan's 10th goal contribution of the MLS season, comprising three goals and seven assists, saw him draw level with Freddy Adu for the most goal contributions by a player aged 16 or younger in a single MLS season, according to MLS official website.

MLS also noted that Sullivan has now registered a goal contribution in four consecutive matches, equalling the longest such streak by an under-18 player alongside Ricardo Pepi in 2021 and Diego Fagundez in 2013.

Philadelphia's victory extended their unbeaten MLS run to seven matches, but much of the attention afterwards centred on Sullivan and whether his rapid rise could soon earn him a first senior USMNT call-up.

The United States are set to begin their 2030 World Cup cycle during next month's international window, with matches against Peru, Chile, Mexico and Canada, and Sullivan's recent performances are likely to intensify calls for manager Mauricio Pochettino to hand the teenager an opportunity.

Sullivan, however, insisted he was not looking too far ahead.

“I am not really focused on the whole call-up thing. But I am happy that we are winning games and that I am making a difference,” Sullivan told reporters.

“The goals and assists are coming. I am just trying to keep this momentum.”