LPR PRO Pushes Three Puerto Rican Talents Toward the UNCAF U-19 Tournament in Panama

The Puerto Rico PRO League (LPR PRO) continues strengthening its role as the island’s top development engine after three of its brightest young players were called up to represent Puerto Rico at the UNCAF U-19 Tournament in Panama. Adrián Burgos, Jheyron Ocasio, and Gamaliel Ortiz will wear the national colors from December 3 to 12, marking another milestone for a league that is beginning to see its investment in youth pay off at the international level.

Adrián Burgos, a standout defender for Puerto Rico Surf, arrives as one of the most reliable center backs in the LPR PRO this season. His anticipation, strength in open-field recovery, and composure in one-on-one situations have made him an anchor in the back line. In a tournament known for intense, fast-paced football, Burgos’ calm presence could be critical for Puerto Rico’s defensive organization.

In midfield, Jheyron Ocasio has carved out a key role at Metropolitan FA thanks to his versatile profile. He combines ball recoveries with controlled distribution, connecting midfield to attack with maturity beyond his age. His inclusion in the U-19 squad highlights the direct link between the competitive environment of the LPR PRO and the demands of international youth competitions.

Completing the trio is Gamaliel Ortiz, a defender who excelled with San Juan FC before transitioning to NCAA soccer at Bentley University. Ortiz’s path represents an increasingly common route for Puerto Rican prospects: develop in the LPR PRO structure, then expand internationally through U.S. college programs without losing ties to the national team. His blend of Puerto Rican league experience and NCAA tactical discipline makes him a valuable asset for this tournament.

Puerto Rico faces a challenging group featuring Guatemala, Costa Rica, and El Salvador. The schedule allows no room for error, demanding physical endurance and tactical consistency from a young squad eager to prove itself. Burgos, Ocasio, and Ortiz step in as symbolic leaders of a generation shaped by a more professionalized domestic ecosystem.

For the Puerto Rican Football Federation, these call-ups demonstrate clear progress in building a competitive, self-sustaining identity. Historically, Puerto Rico has struggled to keep pace with regional powers, but structured pathways—such as the LPR PRO, youth academies, and NCAA connections—are narrowing that gap.

The LPR PRO celebrates these selections as a validation of its mission. Beyond competing for domestic titles, clubs like Puerto Rico Surf, Metropolitan FA, and San Juan FC now represent vital components of the national team pipeline. Every minute the three prospects play in Panama will be watched closely on the island—proof that the road from local pitches to international stages is real and more accessible than ever.