VANCOUVER, BC - Vancouver Whitecaps FC midfielder Marco Bustos has been called up to Chile's U-20 national team for the U.S. Soccer-hosted 2014 NTC Invitational Tournament in Carson, California, from July 14-18. Chile is one of four teams competing in a round-robin style tournament including the United States, Australia, and Bermuda. The tournament is predominantly for players born prior to January 1, 1995, who will be age eligible for the 2015 FIFA U-20 World Cup in New Zealand.
“I am honoured and excited about this opportunity,” said Bustos. “My primary focus is to continue my development and I look forward to learning from this experience. I am a proud Canadian and also proud of my Chilean and Italian heritage."
Bustos, 18, received a call-up to Chile’s U-20 national team but will remain eligible for all future call-ups to Canada. The native of Winnipeg, Manitoba, with Chilean heritage, represented Canada at the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates and participated in Canada’s U-20 camp last May.
“Marco has seen incredible growth since joining the club almost three years ago and this call-up is another opportunity for him to continue in his development,” said Whitecaps FC head coach Carl Robinson.
Bustos joined the 'Caps Residency program in September 2011 and during his three seasons playing in the United States Soccer Development Academy with the club’s U-16 and U-18 teams, the attacking midfielder scored 37 goals in 84 appearances – including 19 goals in 24 games this past season to lead the U-18s to a second place finish in the Northwest Division.
In addition to his time in the club’s Residency program, Bustos made his first team debut, starting the first leg of the Amway Canadian Championship semifinals at Toronto FC on May 7. The playmaker has also scored four goals in six appearances with the U-23 side in the United Soccer Leagues Premier Development League.
It's not too late to participate in the best sporting experience in Vancouver. Whitecaps FC offer a flexible range of ticket products, including prorated season tickets ($184), 5-packs ($149), student season tickets, and a youth soccer half-season ticket. Single-match tickets start at $22, subject to applicable fees. For more information on all Whitecaps FC ticket options, call 604.669.9283 ext. 2 or visit whitecapsfc.com/tickets.
