U16 MLS Next Capture National Academy Championship
February 16th, Bradenton, FL: IFA New England's U16 MLS NEXT Homegrown team today captured the National Academy Championship today at IMG academy in Florida. The team finished the tournament unbeaten, securing the title with a penalty kick victory in the final.
The MLS NEXT National Academy Championship brings together elite homegrown teams from MLS NEXT clubs across North America. The tournament format features 6 games total with 2x30 minute halves, including three group stage matches, quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals spread across four days. This structure mirrors the premier tournament formats used at major national events and provides developmental opportunities for players competing at the highest youth level.
Tournament Journey
The IFA U16 squad opened the competition with three group stage matches, establishing themselves as a top contender from the start. On February 13, they defeated Queen City Mutiny 3-1 and followed with a 2-0 victory over Michigan Wolves. The boys continued their dominant performances on February 14 with a 3-1 win against Cedar Stars Academy Monmouth, securing the top seed heading into knockout rounds.
In the quarterfinals on February 15, IFA faced Bethesda SC in a tightly contested match that ended 2-2 through regulation. The team prevailed 14-13 in a penalty kick shootout to advance to the semifinals.
The semifinal presented another intense battle against BW Gottschee Academy. After a 1-1 draw, IFA again prevailed in the penalty shootout, winning 7-6 to set up a final with TSF Academy on Monday morning. The teams played to a 0-0 draw in regulation, but IFA's composure from the penalty spot again proved decisive. Goalkeeper Milo Ketnouvong making the decisive save to clinch the title.
Coach Perspective
Drago Kazakov, Head Coach reflected on the team's accomplishment: "Really proud of the boys. With consistent performance across all games, I thought we deserved to come away unbeaten as this year's NAC champions. Players stepped up in big moments which was really good to see, especially after a disappointing round of 16 knockout at GA qualifier at Fest back in December. A strong start to the calendar year is a good confidence boost for the boys ahead of what will for sure prove to be a very competitive and challenging Spring season."
MLS NEXT Development Pathway
IFA New England competes in both tiers of MLS NEXT, the premier boys' youth development league created by Major League Soccer. The competition features top-level play for players aged U13 to U19, bringing together elite talent from across the country. All first tier teams are fully-funded, and players gain direct exposure to college, professional, and U.S. national team pathways.
Join IFA New England
IFA New England continues to build elite soccer programs with access to the highest level of competition. Players interested in joining IFA's MLS NEXT teams can apply through the club's recruitment process. Visit the link below to learn more about opportunities to compete at the national level.
https://render.jotform.com/240314528240042
