HERRIMAN, Utah (October 24, 2023) Real Monarchs goalkeeper Fernando Delgado has been selected to represent the U-17 Mexico National Team at the 2023 U-17 World Cup. The tournament is set to take place from November 10 to December 3 in Indonesia. Mexico has a difficult group ahead of them in their first-ever U-17 World Cup appearance, drawing Germany, Venezuela, and New Zealand.
This call up is the culmination of a year’s worth of preparation, in which the Mexico U-17 squad has competed against various teams in the ramp up to the tournament. Delgado will look to improve on his performances in MLS NEXT Pro, where he recorded 26 saves in 10 appearances as well as earning a nomination for MLS NEXT Pro’s Save Of The Year.
The young goalkeeper began his journey at RSL Academy where he exceeded expectations, winning the MLS NEXT Cup with the U-15 squad in 2021. Additionally, he enjoyed success at the professional level with Real Monarchs where he made his debut at just 15 years, 2 months, and 22 days. His debut made headlines when he became the youngest goalkeeper to make his professional debut, at the time. Delgado's accomplishments were recognized in the form of a professional contract with Real Monarchs the following season at just 16 years old.
Mexico begin their campaign in Bali, where they will play two friendly matches, against Uzbekistan and Japan, before their World Cup debut against Germany on Sunday, November 12.
Mexico 2023 U17 World Cup Schedule
Matchday 1
vs Germany
Sun Nov 12
5:00am MT
Matchday 2
vs Venezuela
Wed Nov 15
2:00am MT
Matchday 3
vs New Zealand
Sat Nov 18
2:00am MT
