Following successful 2023 campaigns for both the U-17 and U-15 age groups in their respective MLS NEXT seasons, the two Austin FC Academy sides will compete in the MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs. The tournament is set to take place from June 17 to June 25 in Frisco, Texas.
The MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs are the premium competition for young soccer players in the United States and Canada, providing a platform for the next generation of MLS talent to put their skills on display.
Both the U-17 and U-15 teams are aiming to win their second major youth tournaments of 2023.
The Austin FC U-17 team qualified for the MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs through their first-place triumph at MLS NEXT Flex but would have otherwise earned qualification by winning the Central (South) Division in league play. The U-17s earned 22 points through 11 matches, achieving a 7-3-1 record and creating a seven-point gap at the top of the table. The Central (South) Division also comprised the likes of Sporting Kansas City (15 points), Houston Dynamo (15 points), and FC Dallas (11 points).
The Austin FC U-15 team qualified by finishing first in the Central (South) Division. They earned 18 points through 11 matches, achieving a 5-3-3 record and earning four more points than the next ranked team. Their division contains the same four teams as the U-17 Central (South) Division. In addition to their remarkable season in MLS NEXT, the U-15 team won the Generation adidas Cup this year, a historic first win in the competition for any Austin FC Academy side.
“Reaching the MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs is a result of the hard work of the players and coaches throughout the season,” said Austin FC Academy General Manager Tyson Wahl. “The tournament is a great opportunity for both teams to end the year on a high note.”
The playoffs in each age group will take place in a 32-team single elimination format, with the U-15s and U-17s needing to win five matches to lift the trophy. Both teams are guaranteed a minimum of three matches, with losing teams moving from the playoff portion of the MLS NEXT Cup event to the showcase portion.
The U-15s will begin their playoff journey on Saturday, June 17 at 11:30 a.m. CT against Inter Miami, and the U-17s on Sunday, June 18 at 11:30 a.m. CT vs. FC United Soccer Club. To stay up to date on the tournament and both teams’ progress, follow @austinfcacademy on social media or visit mlssoccer.com/mlsnext/.
