CARSON -- Miguel Ángel Ponce has fond memories of growing up in the San Diego border region. Today, he's on top of Mexican soccer as a member of the U-23 team that's advanced to the semifinals to qualify for the Olympics. And when that stint is over he will return to his club, the powerhouse Chivas de Guadalajara.

He attended San Ysidro Middle School and High School, where his stellar performance drew scouts from Chivas.

He began in the Chivas' farm system then got his big break on April 24, 2010, when he was promoted to the First Division team.

Despite his youth, Ponce, who turns 23 next month, already knows what it's like to play in the rarefied air of national and international competitions. As a member of the Chivas, he's played in Copa Libertadores, the most prestigious tournament in South America.

He was born in Sacramento to Mexican parents and thus can play for Mexico's national team. With "El Tri" last year, he competed in the Copa América and won a gold medal in the Pan American Games in Guadalajara.

Now his El Tri is fighting to be one of two CONCACAF teams that will advance to the Summer Olympics in London.

He was interviewed after Mexico routed Trinidad and Tobago 7-1 on Friday night at the Home Depot Center in the first of three qualifying matches. He was asked what it feels like to return to an area so close to where he grew up.

"I never imagined this would happen. I always dreamed of playing for Mexico's national team but I never thought I would return to the United States," he said.

"To play here, and have my family come support me, that is a great motivator."

The game Friday night was a reunion of sorts for the Ponce family. His parents traveled from Tijuana and

his uncles from Sacramento – all to cheer for him.

Ponce played ably on the left side of the field and at one pivotal moment passed to Marco Fabián, who would go on to score. Fabián also plays for Chivas.

Ponce was asked to reflect how he has reached the top of Mexican soccer.

Ponce said it was important to stay focused, have good character and, above all, have family support.

"I have always set goals for myself; I have never lost focus, I have always loved soccer and have wanted to succeed," he continued. "But the most important thing is to never give up."

Mexico sits atop Group B, after beating Honduras 3-0 on Sunday night. Next up is the match against Panama on Tuesday.

alexandra.mendoza@sandiegored.com