Over the course of the history of Vancouver Whitecaps FC, a number of players who have played for the club at one point or another have also represented their country at the FIFA World Cup. As we approach the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, we will feature players of years’ past who made it to soccer’s pinnacle event.
MIKE SWEENEY
Born in Duncan, BC and raised in Squamish, Mike Sweeney began his professional career in 1980. He played for five clubs in the NASL, CSL, and APSL.
For club
Sweeney appeared in 22 NASL matches for Vancouver Whitecaps from 1983 to 1984 before being traded to Golden Bay Earthquakes.
For country
Sweeney made 61 international appearances for Canada, including 24 World Cup qualifying matches. He appeared in two matches at the 1986 FIFA World Cup, starting the opener against France and subbing into the second match against Hungary.
FUN FACT: Sweeney was the best man at future World Cup teammate Gerry Gray’s wedding in 1985.
