Bangladesh-origin American footballer Kavan Sullivan continues to make history with his impressive performances in Major League Soccer (MLS).
Sullivan, who made his debut in 2024 at the age of just 14, became the youngest player to appear in a top-level American professional league. He had to wait until the current season for his first goal and assist, but has now established himself as one of the league’s most promising young talents.
The 16-year-old made history on Sunday by becoming the youngest player in MLS history, at 16 years and 336 days, to record a goal contribution in four consecutive matches.
Sullivan scored in Philadelphia Union’s 3-1 victory over the New York Red Bulls, helping his side end the Red Bulls’ seven-match unbeaten run.
The young forward produced an impressive individual effort in the 50th minute. After entering the Red Bulls’ penalty area, Sullivan evaded two defenders before firing a left-footed shot into the far corner to put Philadelphia 2-0 ahead.
It was his third goal in 34 appearances this season and his second consecutive match with a goal.
Sullivan also became only the third player aged 18 or under in MLS history to register a goal or assist in four consecutive matches.
Philadelphia took the lead in the 21st minute through Milan Iloski, who scored his 11th career-best goal. Indiana Vassilev and Danley Jean Jacques recorded their first assists of the season on Philadelphia’s opening two goals.
Another 18-year-old prospect, midfielder Neil Pierre, extended Philadelphia’s lead to 3-0 in the 65th minute with his fourth goal in seven matches. Bruno Damiani and Iloski provided the assists.
New York Red Bulls pulled one back in the 74th minute through Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting, his third goal of the season after scoring 17 times last campaign.
Sullivan’s latest performance further underlines his rapid development and growing importance to Philadelphia Union, while his record-breaking run has placed the Bangladesh-origin teenager firmly among the most exciting young players in American football.
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