As the United States trailed favorites France, 2-1, Tuesday at the U-20 World Cup, head Tab Ramos turned to his bench for a spark in the the 63rd minute. Ulysses Llanez and Justin Rennicks entered the game.
Within 11 minutes, the score was knotted at 2-2. Then in the 83rd minute, Rennicks pounced on a rebound to score the most important goal of his young career, sending the United States to the quarterfinals and booking a matchup with Ecuador. Meanwhile, France was sent home as 3-2 losers to watch the rest of the tournament on TV.
Stars are born at this tournament, so many are asking the question: Who is Justin Rennicks?
New England Revolution professional career
After starring two years at collegiate powerhouse Indiana University, Rennicks signed a Homegrown deal with the Revs this past winter, embarking on his professional career.
Rennicks, who turned 20 in March, was the club's sixth-ever Homegrown signing. He went on to make his MLS debut March 9, playing 45 minutes off the bench in a 3-2 loss to Columbus Crew SC.
Two-time Revs Academy Player of the Year
Rennicks was a clear standout in the Revs Academy, earning Player of the Year honors in 2015 and 2016. It wasn't a steady ride up, though, as Rennicks was suspended by the club for the spring of 2017 after training with Bundesliga side Frankfurt.
He ended up staying in New England, signing that Homegrown deal this winter and is looking to take the next step with club and country. All in all, he scored 38 goals and added 25 assists in 100-plus appearances across all levels at the Revs academy.
Decorated youth international
Rennicks first joined US youth national teams at the U-14 level and has featured at each level heading up to the U-20s. He starred at the U-20 Concacaf Championship last year as the team won the tournament by beating Mexico in the final.
While at the World Cup in Poland, Rennicks has made three appearances from the bench, including his match-winning effort against France.
