Syracuse Orange men’s soccer alum Nico Perea has been selected to represent the US National Team in the 2024 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in the United Arab Emirates. Perea, who played for 'Cuse between 2011 and 2014, will be part of a 12-man roster for the prestigious tournament in February.

Why It Matters

Perea's selection to the US National Team for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup highlights the recognition of his talent and the potential for international success, showcasing the impact of his transition from traditional soccer to beach soccer.

By the Numbers
  • Perea scored ten goals and assisted three during his four seasons with Syracuse.
  • The US team was 13th in the FIFA World Rankings at the end of 2023, making them underdogs in the upcoming World Cup.
State of Play
  • The FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup will feature 16 teams competing in group stage matches followed by a knockout-style tournament for the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and finals.
  • The US team faces tough opponents in the group stage, including Italy (ranked sixth), UAE (ranked eighth), and Egypt (unranked).
What's Next

Perea is expected to be a key player for the US team, starting in one of the defensive positions, with potential updates on his status after the group stage concludes.

Bottom Line

Nico Perea's journey from Syracuse soccer to the international stage reflects the growing influence and recognition of beach soccer, positioning him as a player to watch in the upcoming FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup.