San Jose Earthquakes’ 16-year-old Homegrown midfielder Gilbert Fuentes made his USL debut on Saturday night at Greater Nevada Field, playing 23 minutes as a substitute for Reno 1868 FC. His historic appearance off the bench against Sacramento Republic FC was witnessed by 7,301 fans, a club attendance record in their short-lived history.
Fuentes, who signed as a 15-year-old in January, became the youngest Earthquakes player to make his professional debut in a league match, as well as the youngest ever to feature for Reno in USL play. He had previously suited up for 1868 FC in a friendly against Monarcas Morelia (July 14) and for the Quakes in a friendly against Manchester United (July 22).
“He's not afraid of the moment," head coach Ian Russell said of Fuentes postgame.
Reno 1868 FC host Las Vegas Lights FC in the Silver State Cup rivalry match tomorrow night at 7:15 p.m.
Fuentes and his journey to Major League Soccer were recently featured by MLSSoccer.com.
