Cerean Cade Cowell made his debut with the U.S. Soccer Under-17 Men’s National Team earlier this month at the Nike International Friendlies in Mexico.

“It was very special putting on the uniform, let alone playing,” said Cowell, 14. “I think I did really well. I gained confidence as the week went on.”

Cade and the USMNT competed against Argentina, Mexico and Chile.

He started at right wing against Argentina.  

Cade contributed at forward off the bench in the second half versus Mexico and Chile.

“It was very challenging,” he said. “The level of play was so high. “I didn’t think about it (pressure) too much. I didn’t want it to overwhelm me.”

Cowell scored his first international goal as the USMNT battled to a 1-1 tie with Chile on Oct. 7.

He curled a shot around the keeper. “It was exciting,” he said. “We all celebrated as a team.” 

The USMNT lost 2-0 to Mexico on Oct. 6 and 2-1 to Argentina on Oct. 5.

“Just being out there at 14 years old and getting experience, it was awesome,” he said. “Being younger, you’re expected to make mistakes. I focused on what I’m good at.”

Cade joined elite company by earning a spot on Under-17 National Team roster.

“It meant a lot to represent USA,” he said. “That’s been my goal since I was a little kid. That’s why I started playing soccer. It was cool seeing all of the jerseys hanging up on our lockers on game day.”

Cade signed with the San Jose Earthquakes Boys Development Academy after starring on the Pleasanton-based Ballistic United Under-15 club team during the 2017-18 season. He led the nation in scoring with 34 goals in 32 games.

Cowell’s dominant play on the pitch earned him a four-star prospect rating from topdrawersoccer.com. He’s currently the No. 6 rated forward in the nation and No. 1 ranked player in the state for the class of 2022.