Stephen Ramos completed his first two milestones with Argentina’s Under-17 team in the same week. He made his debut against Ecuador on Tuesday and, facing the Ecuadorians again on Thursday, scored his first goal in national colours in a 1-1 draw at the León Kolbowski stadium.
The forward, also known as Kiki, has been part of the recent squads selected by Diego Placente. His debut and first goal placed him within a youth process in which every friendly serves as an assessment for the international challenges ahead.
Ramos was born in Haiti and arrived in Argentina when he was nine months old, after being adopted by an Argentine family following the earthquake that struck the Caribbean country. He grew up in Buenos Aires and traces his earliest memories with a ball to playing in a neighbourhood square with his mother when he was only two.
His development continues in Vélez’s youth divisions. The striker describes speed, attempts to beat opponents, strength in one-on-one duels and a drive towards goal as the main features he is seeking to consolidate for both club and country.
Ramos immediately thought of his family and friends after his first goal in the Argentina shirt, recognising those who have accompanied him since childhood. His next objectives are to gain minutes, keep learning and score for Vélez while sustaining the level required to be considered for the Under-17 World Cup scheduled for November.
