The LA Galaxy Under-18’s are going to the Academy Championships! The Galaxy defeated Real Salt Lake Academy in penalties in their U.S. Soccer Development Academy Playoff match on Friday, July 7 at Grande Sports World to advanced to the Final Four. Efra Alvarez scored the Galaxy’s lone goal in a 1-1 draw that saw the two side go into extra time before deciding the game’s winner in a penalty shootout.
The Galaxy started the match on the front foot and pulled ahead just before half-time when Ethan Zubak slipped a clever pass to Efra Alvarez before the 14-year-old finished his shot one-time in the back of the net.
Los Angeles continued to press for another goal in the second half, but it was Real Salt Lake who found their equalizer in the 60th minute.
The two teams each pushed for the winning goal but neither side refused to budge. The Galaxy then defeated Real Salt Lake 4-1 in penalties to advance to final four.
Los Angeles will face Seattle Sounders FC Academy in the USSDA Semifinals on July 14.
The Galaxy The final four teams from each age group will travel to Carson, California on July 13th. That night, the eight teams will gather at the 10th annual Opening Ceremony awards banquet, where the Academy end of year awards will be announced.
Awards include Coach of the Year, Player of the Year, Best XI, Community Award and Respect Award for each of the three conferences. With all four semifinal games taking place on Friday, July 14th, all eight teams will have one rest day before getting back on the field for the championship and third place games, set for Sunday, July 16
