After starting the camp with a positive result against England, we were eager to continue that form. Looking towards the bigger picture, we decided to model our three-match tour as if it were a potential World Cup group stage. Therefore, getting maximum points out of the matches would be vital to progress through to the next round.
Saturday, we came up against a very strong Russian side and were able to get a well-earned 2-1 win. Tuesday saw us play against a top CONCACAF opposition and of course a rival, the U.S. Our 1-0 win over the U.S. capped off a very successful camp for us leading into the U-20 World Cup qualifiers in January.
Finishing the camp undefeated and taking seven out of a possible nine points (putting it in the bigger picture again) was a great feeling for the entire team. We continued to improve throughout the trip and are hoping to bring that momentum into January when it’s truly important!
Between the matches and training sessions, we were able to check out the beautiful Puerto Banús in Marbella, Spain on a day off. Check out this photo I took when I was there.
Now, as the camp has come to an end, everyone has once again gone their separate ways. I've made my way back up to England with my ‘Caps teammates Marco Bustos and Jordan Haynes to spend a weeklong training stint at Derby County FC.
Then I'll be heading straight to Florida to meet up with the U-18 Residency team for the USSDA Showcase before going back home to Calgary for some time off. It already feels like preseason is just around the corner!
And with the official announcement of next year’s USL PRO team Whitecaps FC 2, I’m even more excited for what’s to come! It’s a fantastic building block for the club and a great opportunity for young players like me.
Thank you very much for reading my blog! Hope you all enjoyed following along.
Looking forward to a great 2015 season!
Marco
