Yurdy Hodelin

Havana, Aug 5 (RHC) - Goalkeeper Yurdy Hodelin received the Golden Glove that accredits him as the best goalkeeper of the Concacaf U-20 Championship of Mexico 2024.

During the event he made 23 saves and played a leading role in Cuba's achievement of qualifying, for the second time in history, to a FIFA World Cup in this category.

Hodelin was a star since the first match of the Cuban national team in the tournament, with a penalty save included, which ended in a draw against Costa Rica, and in which they obtained a valuable point that helped them advance to the quarterfinals.

His call-up to the senior national team last April surprised many: barely 18 years old and totally unknown by the followers of the national championships, he aroused exclamations that were not always flattering.

However, the coaches bet on the talent that they were able to notice and the exceptional disposition despite his young age, although the role of third goalkeeper did not mean an extreme pressure because he does not have a vital responsibility.

Finally, as planned, he was able to play as a starter in a test match against a club of the Honduran second division and showed many qualities in his performance.

In statements to the Cuban sports media, JIT, Hodelin thanked his coaches and reaffirmed his desire to continue improving in order to make history in Cuban soccer.