The 2022 edition of the Generation adidas Cup saw MLS academy sides capture both age groups, with the Portland Timbers emerging victorious in the Under-15 competitions.
There were several impressive performances from an individual effort, as the collective teams battled it out in Frisco, Texas over the past week.
MLSsoccer.com named a Best XI of players from both age groups that helped their sides succeed at the tournament with Portland well represented on the list as midfielder Emiliano Zamudio and Noah Santos both made the Best XI while Keenan VanPelt earned honorable mention. Check MLSsoccer.com for the full list.
Emiliano Zamudio, Portland Timbers U-15 | Midfielder
Portland’s defensive prowess in the knockout stages helped power them through to the Under-15 crown. Deployed in central midfield, Zamudio helped strengthen the spine in front of the backline, keeping Portland either in the lead or close as players like Noah Santos or Max Eisenberg produced the match-winning moments.
Noah Santos, Portland Timbers U-15 | Forward
The Under-15 Tournament MVP, Santos was at the heart of several of Portland’s big moments in front of goal. He grabbed a late winner against Atlanta United in the group stage, one of his five tallies in seven games. A promising forward, he showed impressive game smarts and intelligence, running to the right spots to get into dangerous areas.
Keenan VanPelt, Portland Timbers U-15 | Goalkeeper
VanPelt who came up with big saves in the final against Valencia as well as a key PK stop in the semifinal against LAFC and was consistent throughout the entire tournament, also received the tournament Top Goalie award.
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