Rising Star Justin Ellis Shines with Brace in Orlando's Shootout Win

Orlando, Florida, USA - As the local soccer scene brims with excitement, Orlando City B is set to take on Carolina Core FC in a matchup that promises to showcase some remarkable talent. One player to keep an eye on is none other than Justin Ellis, who has recently made waves with his impressive performances. Ellis, just 16 years old, scored both goals for Orlando City B in a thrilling shootout victory over Crown Legacy FC. This moment marked the first brace of his burgeoning professional career and signaled his upward trajectory in the competitive world of soccer.

Ellis opened the scoring with a powerful shot in the 30th minute, thanks to a well-placed cross from midfielder Gustavo Caraballo. He later equalized from the penalty spot, solidifying his role as a key player with just over ten minutes left in regulation. In the 2025 season alone, he has already tallied five goals in ten appearances, showcasing his undeniable potential on the pitch. As OrlandoCitySC.com notes, such performances are setting the stage for a promising future.

The Rise of a Soccer Star

But who exactly is Justin Ellis? He made his professional debut in March 2024 and wasted no time in leaving his mark, scoring his first professional goal in just his second game. His early success is no fluke; characterized by a blend of work rate, strength, vision, and dribbling skills, Ellis is proving to be a complete striker who excels in various tactical settings. He’s not merely about the individual accolades—Ellis emphasizes team success, believing that „scoring goals is my way to help the team,“ as highlighted on TopDrawerSoccer.com.

His playful celebration at the MLS Next Fest, where he famously devoured a burrito after scoring, went viral, drawing attention to his on-field exploits and off-field personality. Ellis’s continued evolution as a player also saw him contribute more in a playmaking role during the Generation adidas Final, where he assisted on two goals instead of taking low-percentage shots. He credits his coach, Javier Carrillo, as the best in the country, valuing his motivational and tactical guidance.

Global Perspectives on Youth Development

Ellis is part of a broader narrative seen in the world of soccer, where young talents are sprouting across various continents. A study published on PMC analyzed the ages at which players from 32 nations began their journeys in professional soccer academies. Interestingly, the median starting age was found to be 13.2 years, with European players generally commencing their careers at a younger age than those from North America and other regions. This research underscores that while early selection is beneficial, it isn’t the only pathway to success. Many factors contribute to a player’s development, including individual drive and support systems.

This theme resonates with Ellis, who, despite his rising profile, remains humble and focused on self-improvement. He recognizes that his journey is still unfolding, aiming for a spot on the U20 World Cup roster this September. His contributions to the U.S. U18 team, where he scored twice in two appearances, further highlight his growing reputation. Additionally, with his eligibility to play for Uruguay through his mother, Ellis’s future is as bright as it is diverse.

As Orlando City B gears up for an exciting match against Carolina Core FC, fans can expect to see Justin Ellis shine yet again—this young star is on a trajectory that will surely keep us all talking for years to come!