The Chicago Fire Academy Under-19 and Under-17 sides enjoyed a successful weekend at the 2018 U.S. Soccer Development Academy Winter Showcase, mixing studies and soccer and finishing a combined 6-0-0 against academy counterparts from across the country.
The U-19s powered through D.C. United (4-0), United Futbol Academy (5-0), and the New England Revolution (2-0), not allowing a single goal and scoring 11 of their own in the process. The side was led by the goal-scoring efforts of Victor Bezerra -- who led the team with three total goals, including the brace that sunk New England on their final matchday -- and were keyed in attack by Gilberto Angeles, who racked up four assists. In all, eight different players found the net for the U-19s over the event's three matches.
The U-17 side began their weekend with a lopsided 5-1 win over Barça Residency Academy Arizona, and earned their own undefeated finish with subsequent wins over Sporting Kansas City (1-0) and the Colorado Rapids (4-2). Alex Monis led the side with three goals, while Eric Kocs-Washburn (three assists), Brian Gutierrez (two assists) and Missael Rodriguez (two assists) spurred the attack.
The Development Academy Winter Showcase brings all full Academies together for a series of games at the Premier Sports Campus in Lakewood Ranch, Florida. The event gives three competitive games to every attending team against opposition that they wouldn't normally face during week-to-week divisional play in the regular season. The results count towards the overall regular season standings as part of a 10-month season that culminates with the Academy Championships next July.
The U-17s next resume play in the Generation adidas Cup in Houston in February, while the U-19s continue their USDA fixtures in March.
Stay up-to-date on all Academy related news and scores by following them on Twitter and Facebook ahead of Spring competitions.
