Sporting KC defender Kayden Pierre debuts for United States U-20 Men’s National Team

Sporting Kansas City defender Kayden Pierre made his debut for the United States Under-20 Men's National Team on Wednesday, coming off the bench in the United States' opening game of the Revelations Cup against Brazil.  

The Sporting KC Academy product came on late in a 4-0 defeat as the U-20's competed in their first international action since the team faced Mexico in two friendlies in January 2020.  

Brazil jumped out to the early lead in the 11th minute with a shot from just inside the box that was tucked away in the bottom right corner. They followed that up with a penalty less than 10 minutes later.  

Goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina kept the U.S. in the match with a couple of great saves before he was beat from a close-range blast right before halftime. The Brazilian onslaught continued on the other side of the half as they finished another close-range cross no less than five minutes into the half.  

Although Pierre made 25 starts for Sporting Kansas City II at outside back, the Sporting KC talent entered at midfield soon after the fourth goal and helped hold Brazil scoreless for the rest of the match.  

Pierre joined the attack multiple times, helping to set up teammates for good chances. Brazil’s goalkeeper refused to be beat making multiple immaculate saves to keep the U.S. off the board. 

Pierre and the U-20's have their second match of the Revelations Cup on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. CT. Coverage is on TUDN as the U.S. takes on Colombia in the second match of round robin play.  

Following the conclusion of that match, the U-20 U.S. squad will take on Mexico’s U-20 team Tuesday at 5 p.m. CT with coverage on TUDN as well.