SANDY, Utah (Sunday July 20th, 2025) The 4th annual Commanders Cup, known for bringing together elite teams from U.S. military installations across the country, showcasing the athleticism, discipline, and camaraderie that define service members on and off the field kicked off its championship match on Sunday afternoon at America First Field.
The tournament culminated in an intense and anticipated final match between Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) from Texas and three-time reigning champions Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) from Washington. With pride and bragging rights on the line, the clash between these two teams highlighted not only their exceptional skill and teamwork but also the spirit of competition that unites the armed forces.
The match got off to a fast start, with Joint Base Lewis-McChord creating multiple attacking opportunities. Although JBLM controlled possession, JBSA FC was able to counterattack effectively, keeping the defense on its toes. In the 21st minute, JBLM captain, number 10 found the back of the net, giving his team a 1-0 lead. Just seven minutes later, the JBSA Spartans answered with a beautiful header from their captain, earning him a brace for the day.
In the 41st minute, JBSA FC's number 17 made a decisive impact, breaking through the defense and slotting the ball past the keeper to put his team on the scoreboard. The goal came at a crucial moment, shifting the momentum and energizing the JBSA sideline. Now with the match at 2-1, the comeback was within reach heading into halftime.
The second half opened with both squads trading attacks in a fast-paced battle for control. In the 44th minute, JBSA’s number 17 broke away from the defense and fired a shot past the JBLM keeper, leveling the score and securing his second goal of the match, a brace in the championship final.
With regulation coming to a close at a stalemate of 2-2 the officials announced an overtime of 10 minutes would be played with golden goal, meaning whoever scores first will automatically win the game and be awarded the Commanders Cup trophy. As the overtime drew to a close without a goal, the Commanders Cup headed into a penalty shootout to decide the champions of 2025.
In a nailbiter finish, JBSA came out on top, winning the shootout 5–4 after JBLM missed its first penalty kick. The victory marks the first time since the Commanders Cup was established in Utah that a team other than Joint Base Lewis-McChord has claimed the title. Sunday’s thrilling final and the entire weekend of competition, served as a powerful showcase of camaraderie, resilience, and the global support for military service through the unifying power of sport.
