Tormenta FC 07/08 MLS Next Keeper called-up to CONCACAF Under-20 World Cup Qualifiers
Tormenta FC 07/08 MLS Next Keeper Alejandro Fernandez has officially accepted his call-up to represent Puerto Rico in the CONCACAF Under-20 World Cup Qualifiers, set to take place in Curaçao from February 21 to March 4. The selection marks a major milestone in his journey, placing him on the international stage with an opportunity to compete for a spot at the FIFA U-20 World Cup.
At Tormenta FC, the mission is clear: develop complete players, both technically and tactically, mentally and personally, while creating pathways to the highest levels of the game. Alejandro’s journey through the Tormenta FC Academy is a powerful reflection of that mission in action.
That belief has carried Alejandro through every stage of his journey, leading to his development within the Tormenta FC pathway. Shaping him into the player and person he is today. When asked if playing professionally was always the goal, his answer is unwavering. From childhood on, whenever someone asked what he wanted to be when he grew up, the response never changed. Soccer was the dream, and it remains the destination.
Behind that dream stood a strong foundation of support. Alejandro credits his parents as his biggest influences—supporters who made sacrifices, found solutions, and encouraged growth without pressure. Their belief gave him freedom, confidence, and consistency. Along the way, coaches also played a defining role. Each one added a layer to his development, instilling lessons and skills that continue to show in his game today.
That development truly accelerated within the academy environment at Tormenta FC. The club provided Alejandro with more than high-level competition; it offered structure, mentorship, and opportunity. Training daily in a demanding environment, competing in elite leagues such as MLS NEXT, and gaining exposure through USL Academy and first-team experiences prepared him for the next level, both on and off the field. His progression along the pathway was further recognized last year when Alejandro was signed to a short-term contract with the Tormenta FC first team, a significant step toward the professional game. Tormenta became a place where he could grow not only as a goalkeeper, but as a professional-minded young man.
One of the most important areas of growth during his academy years wasn’t technical—it was mental. Alejandro openly reflects on learning how to control his emotions and channel them productively. What once threatened to disrupt his game has become a strength, allowing him to stay composed and impactful in high-pressure moments.
“I’ve grown the most in how I handle the game mentally, learning to control my emotions and turn them into something positive.”
His journey, however, has not been without adversity. A major ankle injury during his U17 season sidelined him for months, forcing him into a period of rehabilitation and reflection. Rather than a setback, it became a turning point. Time away from the field allowed Alejandro to study himself as a player, rebuild patiently, and return with renewed clarity and confidence. Another breakthrough followed the summer after his U16 season, when a brief injury pause was followed by a surge in growth that made the game feel more natural and fluid.
Those moments of resilience and maturity showed on the international stage. Alejandro earned an invitation to the Puerto Rico Under-20 National Team camp, an opportunity that validated years of hard work and steady growth. Approaching camp with calm confidence, he focused on enjoying the experience and trusting his preparation.
That mindset paid off, as Alejandro not only earned a spot on the final 25-man roster but was also officially accepted to join Puerto Rico’s Under-20 squad for the upcoming CONCACAF Under-20 World Cup Qualifiers. The qualifiers will take place in Curaçao from February 21 through March 4, marking another major milestone in his journey and an opportunity to compete on one of the region’s biggest stages.
Representing Puerto Rico means more to Alejandro than personal achievement. It is a source of pride for his entire family and a responsibility he carries with honor. Wearing the crest, he knows he represents not only himself, but every Puerto Rican who shares the dream.
Looking ahead, Alejandro has his sights set on a successful collegiate career, continued international involvement, and a future in the professional game. His ambition aligns with the long-term vision Tormenta FC sets for its academy players: dream big, work daily, and embrace the process.
For younger players watching his path, Alejandro’s message is clear: be coachable, believe in yourself, and have the courage to chase your dream relentlessly. Confidence, consistency, and trust in the process can open doors.
Alejandro’s journey is a powerful example of what can be achieved through commitment, resilience, and a strong Academy environment. His success reflects not only individual determination, but the impact of a club dedicated to developing players the right way.
Congratulations to Alejandro on his continued accomplishments and his place on the Puerto Rico U-20 roster. His story stands as a standard for what is possible, and as inspiration for every young player in the academy who dreams of following in his footsteps.
