NYCFC U16 Side Win Generation adidas Cup in Texas
NYCFC U16s hoisted the 2017 Generation adidas Cup title this weekend after they edged Mexico’s Tigres UANL in Frisco, Texas. NYCFC clinched its first silverware in club history as Giovanni Reyna scored the winning goal from the penalty spot in extra time.
Youth Soccer News: New York City FC’s U16 team was crowned champions of the 2017 Generation adidas Cup after not conceding a single goal in the five matches they played over the ten-day tournament.
Giovanni Reyna scored the lone goal of the match from the penalty spot in Saturday evening’s final versus Tigres UANL in Frisco, Texas.
In addition, NYCFC swept the individual awards, with Johan Penaranda earning the Golden Glove award and 14-year old Reyna receiving Golden Ball honors for best player.
NYCFC, who named three 14-year-old players in its starting XI, dominated a goalless first half with several opportunities opening up for the American side.
Both Reyna and Joe Scally met crosses into the box that were directed narrowly wide, while Will Sands was denied by a sprawling save from the Tigres goalkeeper.
The Mexican side opened the second half with opportunities of its own, but Penaranda made a couple of crucial saves to keep the match level.
With the game heading into extra time, Reyna nearly won it for the boys in blue in the final minute but was denied by a great save from the Tigres ‘keeper.
However, Reyna would only have to wait one minute into the first period of extra time after being fouled in the penalty area. He converted from the spot to give New York the one-goal advantage.
NYCFC eventually clinched its first piece of silverware in club history after Tigres were not able to rally back.
NYCFC booked its place in the final following a 2-0 victory over San Jose Earthquakes in the semifinals, continuing its excellent record from the group round.
Photo Credit: New York City FC
