Luis Rivera Named to GA Cup Best XI

Real Salt Lake Academy defender Luis Rivera has been named to the 2022 Generation Adidas Cup Best XI by MLSsoccer.com following the U15s’ tournament run. 

Rivera was highlighted for his stout defense and confidence on the ball, which was integral in the U15s’ success. Rivera was also acknowledged for his leadership as the anchor of the backline and captain for the RSL U15s. Additionally, Goalkeeper Ty Rinker earned honorable mention honors for his efforts throughout the tournament. 

This honor caps off an eventful month for Rivera who has made his professional debut and has started for MLS NEXT Pro side Real Monarchs at just 14 years of age. Rivera also was recently named to the U15 United States Youth National Team alongside his teammate, forward Zavier Gozo.

The U15s had a strong showing during the GA Cup, winning all three matches and finishing on top of the group in the group stage. RSL advanced to quarterfinals after defeating Austin FC 1-0 in the Round of 16 before eventually falling to Spain’s Valencia CF by way of penalty kicks. 

Below is MLSsoccer.com’s full Generation Adidas Cup Best XI: 

GK: Wyatt Nelson (SEA U17) 

DEF: Luis Rivera (RSL U15), Stuart Hawkins (SEA U17), Israel Boatwright (MIA U17)

MID: Emiliano Zamudio (POR, U15), Decarlo Guerra (LAFC U15), Caleb Borneo (COL U17), Adyn Torres (ATL U15) 

FW: Noah Santos (POR U15), Mateo Ponce-Ocampo (NYC U17), Dempsey Resich (LAFC U15) 

HM: GK Keenan VanPelt (POR U15), MID Rocket Ritarita (ATL U15), FW Ashton Gordon (ATL U15), F Etienne Veillard (SEA U17), F Bryan Destin (MIA U17), GK Ty Rinker (Real Salt Lake U-15), D Jackson Lindimore (COL U17), M Brian Carmona (CLT U15), F Micah Burton (ATX U17)