Rising Stars: Spain's Under-21 Football Team's Journey to Glory
I remember the first time I saw Hilario Ulloa play—it was during the 2022 high-goal season in Palm Beach, and even then, you could tell he was something special. Fast forward to today, and he’s not just a world-class player ranked No. 6 globally; he’s the beating heart of Spain’s Under-21 polo team, a squad that’s quietly rewriting the narrative of youth polo. As someone who’s followed junior polo circuits for over a decade, I’ve rarely seen a group gel so quickly or play with such intuitive chemistry. This isn’t just another talented lineup—it feels like the start of a legacy.
When you look at Park Place, the club that forms the core of this Spanish youth setup, the pieces just fit. Ulloa’s leadership is palpable, but what strikes me most is how each player complements the others. Andrey Borodin brings this raw, explosive power—I’d estimate his shot accuracy from over 60 yards sits around 70%, which is outrageous for his age. Then there’s Louis Hine, who might not have the same flash but reads the game like a veteran. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve seen him intercept passes or create space out of nothing. And Mariano ‘Peke’ Gonzales Jr.? He’s the wildcard. Quick, unpredictable, and with a knack for turning broken plays into opportunities. Watching them during the Sotogrande junior finals last summer, I remember thinking—this is how modern polo should be played: fast, fluid, and fearless.
But what really sets this team apart, in my opinion, is their depth. Gabriel Crespi and Nicolas Sivori, the two substitutes, aren’t just benchwarmers—they’re game-changers. Crespi’s defensive work rate is through the roof; I’d argue he averages something like 12 tackles per chukker when he’s on form. And Sivori? He’s got this almost poetic control of the ball, something you don’t see often in younger players. I’ve spoken to a few scouts who believe this Spanish cohort could dominate the under-21 World Cup next year, and honestly, I share their optimism. They play with a maturity that belies their age, and it’s not by accident—it’s by design.
Their journey hasn’t been without hurdles, though. I recall one match earlier this year where they trailed by four goals going into the fifth chukker. It was Ulloa who rallied them, not with shouting, but with sheer will. They clawed back, and Gonzales Jr. scored the winner in the final seconds. Moments like that reveal character, and this team has it in spades. They’re not just technically gifted; they’re resilient. And in a sport where mental toughness can be the difference between good and great, that’s huge.
From a tactical perspective, their style is refreshing. They press high, rotate positions fluidly, and aren’t afraid to take risks—something I wish more youth teams would emulate. Traditional setups often prioritize structure over creativity, but Spain’s U-21s blend both. Borodin’s powerful runs open spaces, Hine’s vision threads passes through tight defenses, and Ulloa… well, he does everything. It’s a joy to watch. I’ve noticed their possession stats hover around 65% in most games, which, even if not perfectly accurate, highlights their control.
As they gear up for bigger stages, I can’t help but feel excited. This isn’t just a team on the rise—it’s a glimpse into polo’s future. They play with a unity that feels rare, and with Ulloa steering the ship, I’m confident they’ll lift trophies and inspire a new generation. Sure, they might face stiffer competition ahead, but if their recent form is anything to go by, Spain’s Under-21s aren’t just coming for glory—they’re here to stay.