FC Dallas product Gabriel Funes made his debut for Argentinean giants River Plate on the weekend.

The 18-year old, who won the 2008 version of Univision's reality tryout TV show - 'Sueno MLS', came on in the 66th minute of River's 3-1 loss to Velez Sarsfield but despite the loss was delighted to have been a part of Argentina's Primera Division.

"It was something very wonderful," Funes told Ovacion.com. "It was extremely emotional. I never would have thought I would debut in the Primera. At least for now the dream has come true."

'Funes immigrated to Texas from Argentina with his family at age 10 and after a season in which he scored 35 goals for Arlington High, he entered "Sueno Dallas" - sueno means "dream" in Spanish - and prevailed among the 2,000 participants.'

Funes admitted he was nervous prior to the match but was happy with his overall performance.

"I came in with confidence and was a little nervous, which is normal. I got into the action, but came up short in front of the goal. But it was a good debut, and it was very important for me that I didn't miss-hit any passes," he added.