BOGOTÁ, Colombia — FC Dallas speedster Fabián Castillo has been named to Colombia's final 21-man squad that will participate in the U-20 World Cup by Colombian Under-20 national team coach Eduardo Lara.
The FCD Designated Player has been in Colombia camp for the past several weeks as part of the 30-man preliminary roster looking to make the cut ahead of the tournament. Colombia plays host to the event, which kicks off July 29.
Castillo's two goals and three assists over 15 games with FC Dallas reopened Lara's eyes to the 19-year-old attacker, and he was able to prove his worth in camp and claim a spot in the official roster. Lara called Castillo “a man who has dynamic footwork and speed, which is key to unlock any defense.”
“We are all very proud of Fabián’s selection to Colombia’s U-20 squad,” said FC Dallas head coach Schellas Hyndman in a statement on Thursday. “Fabián will be representing his country, FC Dallas and MLS at the FIFA U-20 Championships, and we are excited to see him demonstrate his skills and talents to the world at this very prestigious tournament.”
The Cali-born forward will be battling for a starting spot with three other forwards: Udinese’s Fernando Muriel, Santa Fe's José Adolfo Valencia (son of former MetroStars forward Adolfo Valencia) and Duván Zapata of América de Cali.
The Colombian side has been preparing in the nation's capital, where they will play all three of their group-stage games against France, Mali and South Korea. Los Cafeteros open against the French on July 30.
