EASTERN CONFERENCE
In a thrilling clash, Vermont Green FC bested FC Motown STA with a final score of 3-2, marking a significant moment in the club’s history as they advance to their inaugural Eastern Conference Final. The match was a nail-biter, with Motown initially taking a 1-0 lead into halftime, and then extending it to 2-0 shortly after the break with a penalty kick from Micaah Garnette. Facing this adversity, Vermont mounted a stunning comeback. Zachary Zengue netted the first goal for Vermont, and less than two minutes later, Max Kissel leveled the match. Julien Le Bourdoulous then converted a penalty, solidifying a magical victory for the Green.
In another semifinal, Lionsbridge FC triumphed over Northern Virginia FC 2-1, securing their place in a third consecutive Eastern Conference Final. The match featured an early goal from Christian Hatley, followed by a header from Sam Hall that put Lionsbridge up 2-0 at half time. Despite a late push from Northern Virginia, which pulled within one goal in the second half, Lionsbridge managed to sustain their lead and emerge victorious.
SOUTHERN CONFERENCE
Dothan United showcased their strength with a 2-0 win against Louisiana Krewe FC, both teams making their playoff debuts. After a cautious first half, Dothan surged ahead with a goal in the 68th minute and sealed their victory with a stoppage-time goal from Lawrence Goodard that energized the fans.
In a high-octane matchup, Fort Lauderdale United FC triumphed over Sarasota Paradise 2-1. The game began explosively with a quick goal from Logan Hall. Sarasota equalized shortly after the halftime break, but a decisive counterattack led to a late winner from Ronaldo Belgrove, marking an exciting finish for Fort Lauderdale.
CENTRAL CONFERENCE
In a rematch for the third consecutive year, Flint City Bucks defeated Fort Wayne FC 2-0 after extra time. Although Fort Wayne had previously achieved late-game victories, Flint displayed resilience. They finally broke the deadlock late in extra time through a penalty converted by Donavan Phillip, allowing them to progress to their fourth straight Central Conference Final.
Minneapolis City SC continued their strong form with a 2-0 victory over Sueño FC, avenging a recent defeat and securing their first appearance in league finals. Preston Kipnusu opened the scoring as part of a swift counterattack, and Andrew Heckenlaible’s powerful strike solidified their advantage.
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Ballard FC celebrated a 2-1 victory against Snohomish United, avenging an earlier loss. The match saw Ballard take an early lead, but Snohomish equalized with a stunning strike. A second goal from Rafael Otero ultimately led to Ballard’s advancement, as they secured their third conference finals appearance in four years.
Ventura County Fusion clinched a 2-0 win over FC Tucson in a rematch of last year’s playoff showdown. After a scoreless first half, Ventura took the lead with a penalty from Angel Iniguez, and Andres Torres added a second goal via a well-executed corner kick, propelling them to their first Western Conference Final since 2023.
The playoffs have been filled with action and remarkable performances, showcasing the resilience and determination of these teams in their quest for championship glory. With each game, the excitement builds as the finals approach, promising even more thrilling soccer moments to come.