FRISCO, Texas - Both the FC Dallas Academy U16 and U19 teams advanced out of the first round of the 2023 MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs to reach the Round of 16 this weekend at Toyota Soccer Center in Frisco, Texas.
The U16s earned a 6-1 victory over Tampa Bay United Saturday morning. Ian Witis-Hughes, Landon Hickam and Caleb Swann each scored first-half goals before Christopher Salazar, Swann and Jaidyn Contreras added three more during the second 45. The U16s, coached by Scott James, will face Miami Rush Kendall SC in the Round of 16 later today, Sunday, June 18 at 5PM on Field 7 at Toyota Soccer Center.
Coach Chuy Vera's U19s toppled local rivals Solar SC 5-4 in penalties Sunday morning after a 1-1 draw in regulation. Substitute Pablo Torre opened the scoring for Dallas midway through the second half before Solar equalized just three minutes later. Goalkeeper Aaron Salinas made one save during the shootout to set the stage for midfielder Dylan Lacy to win the game for FCD with a panenka from 12 yards out.
The U19s will face Sockers FC in the Round of 16 on Monday, June 19 at 9AM on Field 9 at Toyota Soccer Center.
