HARRISON, N.J. (May 22, 2026) – Red Bulls Academy U-16s and U-18s will conclude the 2025-26 season as both sides travel to Salt Lake City to participate in the MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs, which will be held from May 23 to May 31 at Regional Athletics Soccer Complex.
The U-16s and U-18s qualified for the competition by placing first in their respective groups during 2026 MLS NEXT Flex, which was held from April 23 to April 28 at the Toyota Soccer Complex in Frisco, Texas.
During Group G action, the U-16s secured two points in their first match with a 1-0 penalty shootout win against City SC San Diego. The squad were then able to win consecutive 1-0 matches against Shattuck-St. Mary’s and Woodside Soccer Club Crush to finish top of the group.
"We go into this event with a clear identity and the bravery to play our football in every moment," said U-16 Head Coach Simon Nee.
"The mindset is simple: embrace the challenge, enjoy the experience and leave the tournament having grown as players and as people."
Meanwhile, the U-18s cruised through the Group F matches with convincing victories against Wake FC (6-1), Capital City SC (5-1) and Sacramento United (4-0).
“Heading into the MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs, our mindset is centered around growth, consistency and daily commitment to improvement,” said U-18 Head Coach Eric Tenllado Ortega.
“There is also real motivation in the opportunity to pioneer something for the club and become the first group to win the MLS NEXT Cup at the U19 level. We are excited for the challenge and the opportunity to compete against the best teams in the country.”
The U-16s kick off the tournament against Athletum FC Academy on Sunday, May 24 at 10:15 a.m. ET. For the U-18s, they will take on Jacksonville FC in their first match on Sunday, May 24 at 5 p.m. ET.
If the U-16s or U-18s can claim the title, it will be the first time in program history for either side. During the 2022-23 season, the U-15s won the competition.
