Justin Ellis scored four minutes into his United States Men’s National Team debut Saturday, helping the team defeat Peru 4-1 at Inter.co Stadium. The goal made Ellis the fastest player to score in a debut in modern United States Men’s National Team history. Ellis made his Major League Soccer debut for Orlando City SC at the same stadium the previous year.
“It’s like the perfect moment, man. I dreamed of this. I play in this stadium often, but to play in this stadium for my national team is unbelievable. I was just thinking, ‘Thank you, God,’ a lot. It’s probably one of the best moments of my life.”
Ellis makes United States Men’s National Team history
Giovanni Reyna assisted Ellis’ goal after the two players spent time together during the week. Ellis said Reyna told him the night before the match that he would provide the assist. Reyna later encouraged Ellis to return toward the crowd and take in the reaction from the Orlando supporters.
“Gio and I spent a lot of time together this week, and he actually told me the night before the game that he was going to assist me. It ended up happening, and I’m very grateful for that.”
The United States Men’s National Team is 8-0-0 at Inter.co Stadium since the venue opened in 2017. Eleven United States players made their debuts against Peru, including Ellis and Julian Hall, who both scored debut goals. Ellis said the younger players brought energy while the senior players helped them during the match.
“I think us young guys bring fresh energy, which is a good vibe, and the senior players help us a lot too.”
Alex Freeman shares Ellis’ milestone
Alex Freeman, a former Orlando City defender and a close friend of Ellis, also played for the United States Men’s National Team against Peru. Ellis and Freeman came through soccer in South Florida and the Orlando City Academy pathway. Ellis signed with Orlando City SC earlier this year, while Freeman departed for Villarreal CF in January.
Ellis said playing alongside Freeman added meaning to the occasion because the two had known each other for years. He also said the pair had not truly played together since his Orlando City debut, when he played only a couple of minutes.
“He’s like family to me. Being able to celebrate with him, and really play with him for real, meant everything. The last time we shared a field was my MLS debut, and I only played a couple minutes. To really play alongside him was unbelievable.”
Freeman praised Ellis for taking his opportunity in his first appearance for the United States Men’s National Team. He said scoring four minutes into a debut in Orlando was remarkable and highlighted what Ellis could offer the national team.
“It was crazy. Scoring four minutes into your debut here in Orlando is honestly kind of ridiculous. I was just telling him after the game I was going to steal the goal, but it was an amazing header. He deserves it. I think he played well today, and it just shows how you can come in and take your chance. It shows what he can give to the national team, and to its future as well.”
Freeman returns to Inter.co Stadium
Freeman took a lap around Inter.co Stadium after the match to thank Orlando supporters. The former Orlando City defender said he wanted to revisit the field where he had played regularly and appreciate the fans’ support. He also said returning to Orlando reminded him of his roots.
“I wanted to thank the fans. I wanted to come around and see the stadium one more time, get a feel for the field I used to play on all the time. It was amazing, and I just wanted to soak it all in and appreciate everything they’ve cheered us for.”
“I wanted to take it all in and realize I came from here, and not to forget my roots. Being here was such an amazing time, and I thank Orlando for everything. I’ve been able to go into a different environment, but coming back here just feels like home.”
FSB Take
Ellis’ debut connected an Orlando City SC player-development pathway to a record-setting United States Men’s National Team moment. His goal came at the same stadium where he began his professional career, while Freeman’s appearance and postmatch lap added another Orlando connection to the victory over Peru.
The result also extended the United States Men’s National Team’s record at Inter.co Stadium to 8-0-0 and featured 11 debuts. For Orlando City SC, Ellis’ immediate impact and Freeman’s return provided two distinct reminders of the club’s role in the players’ development.
Source: Original report