After scoring the game-winner in a 2-1 Union II victory over Chicago Fire II, Philadelphia Union II midfielder David Vazquez was named MLS NEXT Pro Rising Star of the Month, the league announced on Thursday evening.
The Union Academy forward had quite the busy April appearing both with Philadelphia Union II and the Academy. Vazquez's month kicked off at the 2023 Generation adidas Cup in Florida where he scored the first goal of the tournament for the U17 squad against the Houston Dynamo. Vazquez and his teammates put on quite the defensive display and composure in pressure situations with victories of international sides Remo Stars FC and Palmeiras to claim a piece of club history in winning the 2023 GA Cup.
After a successful run at the youth level, Vazquez returned to Union II where he made five appearances (four starts) in April. The major highlight came with the game winner on April 16th against Fire II which not only clinched Union II three points on the road, but it also marked the 1,000th regular season goal in MLS NEXT Pro history.
With the honor, Vazquez is the first member of Philadelphia Union II to collect the league's monthly accolades.
Vazquez and Union II are back in action this weekend as they face off against rivals New York Red Bulls on Sunday, May 7th. Kick off from MSU Soccer Park is set for 7 p.m. ET with the match broadcast on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.
