La Federación Venezolana de Fútbol (the Venezuelan Football Federation) today announced its roster for a pair of upcoming international friendly matches in the United States, with Austin FC midfielder Dani Pereira named to the 32-player list. The call-up is Pereira’s first at the senior international level.
“It’s an incredible honor to have the chance to represent my home country on the international stage for the first time,” said Pereira. “This call-up is a dream come true in my career and I’m grateful to all my family, friends, teammates, and coaches who have helped me on my journey.”
Austin FC drafted Pereira with the first overall pick of the 2021 MLS SuperDraft from Virginia Tech. The 22-year-old has since become a mainstay in the team’s midfield, making 77 appearances across all competitions. Pereira leads all Austin FC outfield players in minutes played this MLS season with 1,324. In that time, he has passed at an 87.1 percent success rate, completed 321 passes in the opposition half, and tallied 155 duels, all team-highs.
Pereira has registered two (2) goals, six (6) assists, 65 interceptions, and 45 key passes throughout his time in MLS with Austin FC.
“Dani has been a strong performer throughout his time with Austin FC. His quality and consistency are both exemplary, especially for a player of his age,” said Austin FC Interim Sporting Director Sean Rubio. “We’re very happy for him to have earned his first senior international call-up and wish him all the best during his time with Venezuela.”
Pereira will join Venezuela for its international friendly matches against Honduras on June 15 at Audi Field in Washington, D.C., and Guatemala on June 18 at Rentschler Field in Hartford, Connecticut.
