Sunderland youngster Juan Riquelme Angulo has described making his senior Ecuador debut as the fulfilment of a childhood dream.
The 18-year-old was handed his first appearance for his country by new Ecuador boss Marcelo Gallardo against South Korea last week.
Angulo only played around 23 minutes, but the Sunderland forward made an immediate impression. He registered two shots, saw one effort cleared off the line and completed every pass he attempted.
Angulo fulfils Ecuador dream
Speaking from Ecuador's camp, Angulo revealed his pride at finally representing the senior national team.
"It was a beautiful moment for me. I fulfilled my dream of playing for my country," he said.
"Coach Gallardo gave me the opportunity. I called my family and they are very proud of me."
There was also extra significance attached to the shirt he wore.
Angulo was given Ecuador's No.13, previously worn by the country's all-time leading goalscorer Enner Valencia.
"I honestly didn't know they were going to give me that number, but for me it was an honour to wear it," Angulo explained. "I'm proud to have that number."
Sunderland youngster targets striker role
Simply making his debut is not enough for Angulo.
The teenager, who joined Sunderland from Independiente del Valle this year, has already set his sights on becoming Ecuador's long-term striker.
"I'm preparing myself to bring joy to the country," he said. "I'm doing things in the best possible way for that, to be the striker for La Tri."
It has been a period of major change for the youngster, adapting to life at Sunderland while now travelling across Asia with Ecuador.
For now, however, his attention remains firmly on international duty and Ecuador's next match on October 1.
Key Points
- Sunderland's Juan Riquelme Angulo made his senior Ecuador debut aged 18.
- He played around 23 minutes against South Korea and had an effort cleared off the line.
- Angulo described representing Ecuador as fulfilling a childhood dream.
- He wore the No.13 shirt previously associated with Ecuador legend Enner Valencia.
- The teenager has set his sights on becoming Ecuador's future first-choice striker.
What’s Next?
Angulo remains with Ecuador ahead of their next match on October 1, giving him another opportunity to impress Gallardo.
After the international break, attention will return to Sunderland and his development in English football. His senior international breakthrough represents another major step for a player who only moved from Independiente del Valle earlier this year.
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