Chargers reach semis of Champions Cup

The Lakewood Ranch Chargers U13 boys soccer team advanced to the semifinals of the NPL Champions Cup July 18-22 in Aurora, Colo.

The Chargers, who advanced to the tournament after winning the Florida Premier League title early this year, went undefeated in the group stage to win their bracket and earn a spot in the semifinals.

Lakewood opened the tournament with a 5-1 victory over Washington’s Cobra Aguilitas. Alessandro Ciaccio, Henry Howell, Aristotle Zarris, Joel Sumaljag and Freddy Manriquez each scored a goal in the win.

The Chargers followed up their win with a 1-0 victory over Chicago’s Sockers FC. Sumaljag scored the game-winning goal.

The Chargers concluded group play with a 5-2 victory over California’s Fullerton Rangers. Howell scored three goals and Zarris and Ozzie Herrera each scored a goal.

Lakewood fell to New Jersey’s PDA 3-0 in the semifinals. PDA went on to defeat FC Dallas to win the championship.

The Chargers will return to practice Aug. 12 in preparation for their upcoming season as part of the Chargers U13/14 US Soccer Federation Development Academy team.

Contact Jen Blanco at [email protected].