Luis Gil was the USA U20 team's best player as they opened their World Cup campaign with a 4-1 defeat at the hands of Spain on the weekend.
The Real Salt Lake midfielder pulled the strings for the US side and his performance, which included a stunning consolation goal in the 77th minute, was not lost on head coach Tab Ramos.
"I'm happy with the game he played," Ramos told reporters after the loss.
"He made a great effort, scored a great goal and was probably our best player."
Gil, who shimmied around his marker, before unleashing a brilliant strike from outside the area said he felt extremely comfortable in the playmaker position.
"I've been working years for this, so you just go out there and do what you've got to do," Gil told MLSsoccer.com.
"With RSL, I'm up against older guys and it's a little more difficult. Here there's more time and space on the ball. Coming here gives me more confidence and that's why I'm more comfortable on the ball."
From a team perspective, Gil added: "Obviously this is a great opportunity for players to showcase themselves. But I'm focused on my team and we're in a bit of a situation right now. We need to start winning. If we win, it makes the whole team look good."
