The USMNT’s kids are thriving, and ‘they have a bit of swag to them’

Cavan Sullivan’s first international goal was one to remember. Photograph: Kevin Abele/Icon Sportswire/Getty Images

From the outside, a moment like the one Cavan Sullivan produced Saturday seemed to be pulled directly from dreamland. Turns out, it pretty much was.

“I was amazed. I was excited,” the 17-year-old said of learning he’d start for the US men’s national team against Mexico, in what would become a 3-0 win. “I texted my family right after, and after lunch, I took a nap. Before I go to sleep, I visualize and try to manifest good things for the night. Some things come to fruition, some don’t.”