Kanoa Wins U17 Soccer Championship Titles
Celebrating Dual Triumphs at KANOA Football Club
KANOA Football Club made an unforgettable mark on the TakeCare Youth Soccer League Spring 2025 season by clinching both the U17 boys and U17 girls division titles. The celebration took place at the NMI Soccer Training Center, showcasing the talent and hard work of the young athletes involved.
U17 Boys Division Showdown
In a thrilling title match, KANOA faced off against Matansa Football Club and emerged victorious with a decisive 4-0 win. From the outset, KANOA set the pace of the game, determining the rhythm and intensity right from kick-off. Matansa managed to put up a tough defense in the initial minutes, but KANOA’s attacking prowess soon proved too much to handle.
Paul Lizama was instrumental in the game’s opening moments, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by Matansa to score the first goal in the 7th minute. This early lead ignited KANOA’s momentum and showcased their offensive strategy—utilizing long overhead passes to stretch the opposing defense.
Mid-Game Developments
As the match progressed, Matansa began to find their footing, creating opportunities and showcasing defensive resolve. Nevertheless, KANOA maintained relentless pressure, continuously testing Matansa’s defensive line. The breakthrough came again in the 27th minute when Rooney Gil found the back of the net, extending KANOA’s lead to 2-0.
Not resting on their laurels, KANOA capitalized on their momentum with Izeah Jolo scoring the team’s third goal shortly afterward. By maintaining a high-paced attack throughout the match, KANOA demonstrated their commitment to securing victory.
The Final Whistle and Awards
In the second half, Matansa rallied to hold KANOA scoreless for a significant period, but it was a matter of time before the defending champions struck again. In the 70th minute, Lizama once again showcased his skill by slipping through Matansa’s defense to score the final goal. This 4-0 victory not only secured the title for KANOA but also demonstrated their dominance throughout the season.
Adding to the accolades, Paul Lizama was honored with the Golden Boot Award for his remarkable achievement of scoring 34 goals throughout the season. Such accomplishments highlight the depth of talent and teamwork within the club.
U17 Girls Division Dynamic
KANOA’s success was echoed by the girls’ team, who also triumphed in their division by defeating MP United Football Club 4-1. The match kicked off with MP United controlling possession early on, with Yeji Jang drawing first blood by scoring in the 2nd minute. This shock starter put KANOA on the back foot, but the girls swiftly regrouped.
Turning the Tide
As the match entered its groove, KANOA began to coordinate attacks effectively, with Aubrey White becoming a standout performer. She spearheaded the charge with her remarkable scoring ability, netting her first goal in the 19th minute, which helped to equalize the score and boost her team’s morale.
The second half saw KANOA step up their game. White continued to prove her mettle by scoring two more goals at critical moments—first in the 49th minute and then again in the 55th minute. Beatrice Gross also contributed significantly to the scoreline with a goal in the 27th minute, cementing KANOA’s victory with a final score of 4-1.
Golden Boot Honors
Aubrey White’s stellar performance throughout the season earned her the Golden Boot, with a commendable total of 17 goals. Her ability to find the net consistently highlights her skill and determination, qualities that serve as an inspiration to her teammates and aspiring young footballers everywhere.
Through their compelling season and outstanding performances, both KANOA Football Club teams exemplified teamwork, talent, and tenacity. Their victories represent not just individual excellence, but the spirit of youth football as a whole.
For more insights into youth football development and nurturing young talent, you can explore resources from [FIFA](https://www.fifa.com/youthfootball/).
