FRISCO, Texas (Monday, April 11, 2022) – In its third and final match of the group stage at the 2022 Generation Adidas Cup, the Real Salt Lake Academy U15s defeated Mexico’s Club Tijuana 2-1, winning the group and clinching a spot in the knockout round.
RSL Academy started quickly, scoring a goal in the second minute of play from defender Jahmani Stapleton. Stapleton received a cross off a corner from midfielder Gilberto Garcia, heading it into the back of the net. Garcia would add a goal of his own in the 15th minute on a beautiful free-kick from 35 yards out, squeezing it between the keeper and the crossbar. The U15s dominated the rest of the half and went into the break leading 2-0.
Club Tijuana responded in the 48th minute with a goal of their own, bringing themselves within one. But the Mexican side couldn’t find an equalizer, ending the match 2-1 in RSL Academy’s favor.
Not only did the U15s win the group, but they did so tied for the third-best goal differential of the tournament, behind LAFC and Valencia CF, while tied with Manchester United. Goalkeeper Ty Rinker pointed to the efforts of his teammates, saying, “It’s not just me, but it’s a team effort.” RSL Academy was also one of only two teams to win all three matches in group play, joining LAFC.
After the match, Coach Jamie McGregor was proud of the team’s effort and character, believing the team can go the distance. “There’s no reason why this group of boys can’t go the distance. We’ll take the next game tomorrow and then go from there.”
Up Next: The RSL Academy U15s will move on to the knockout round and face Austin FC tomorrow with kickoff at 8:00 p.m. MT. Additionally, the RSL Academy U17s play their final group stage game tomorrow at 8:00 a.m. MT against Houston.
Scoring Summary 1 2 F
RSL Academy U15 2 0 2
Club Tijuana 0 1 1
RSL: Jahmani Stapleton (Gilberto Garcia) 2’
RSL: Gilberto Garcia 15’
Club Tijuana 48’
