06:48 PM
Ecuador’s talented midfielder Kendry Páez became the youngest Copa América scorer of the 21st century on Wednesday when he scored a penalty at just 17 years and 53 days old. The goal gave La Tri a momentary 2-0 lead against Jamaica in Las Vegas.
Páez, who last Saturday against Venezuela had already made history as the youngest debutant in the Copa América in this century, added a new record to his young and promising career. The Independiente del Valle player accurately executed a maximum penalty with his left foot in added time of the first half of the match played at Allegiant Stadium.
Páez’s goal was not only significant because of his youth, but also because it was the first penalty recorded in the tournament, which up to that point had accumulated nineteen goals. With this achievement, Páez surpassed the mark of Costa Rican Joel Campbell, who scored in the 2011 Copa América at 19 years and 12 days old, according to data provided by the specialized platform Besoccer.
The name of Kendry Páez already resonates strongly in historical records. In Santa Clara, California, against Venezuela, he surpassed the record of Paraguayan Julio Enciso, who debuted in 2021 at 17 years and 143 days old. In addition, Páez has become the youngest debutant in the history of the Ecuadorian national team, surpassing the legend Felipe Caicedo, who debuted at 18 years and 296 days old in a 2007 match.
Although Colombian Johnnier Montaño remains the youngest overall goalscorer in Copa América history, having scored at 16 years, five months and 17 days, Páez’s achievement is notable and adds a brilliant chapter to his budding career.
The future of Kendry Páez seems promising. With his ability to score important goals and set new records, this young left-footed striker has the potential to become a star in the world of football. His performance in the Copa América has not only captured the attention of Ecuadorian fans, but has also generated expectations at an international level.
Páez has shown that youth is not an impediment to making history in one of the most prestigious tournaments on the continent. With each match, he continues to cement his place in the pantheon of South American football and promises many more surprises in his career.
The next challenge for Páez and the Ecuadorian team will be to continue advancing in the Copa América, and with his talent and determination, there is no doubt that this young player will continue to leave his mark on the tournament.
