High School Soccer Teams Secure Spots in State Championships

Two high school soccer teams from St. Paul are set to compete in the state championships following thrilling victories in the section finals held on Tuesday. The boys’ and girls’ tournaments will feature an exciting lineup of teams from the East Metro area, showcasing the competitive spirit and talent in high school soccer.

Boys’ Teams Advance to State

In a dramatic showdown, Central High School secured its return to the state tournament for the first time since 2019, defeating Stillwater 4-3. Key players for the Minutemen included Conrad Iwaszkowiec, Firomsa Aman, Elijah Moseman, and Rowan Tidwell, each contributing to the crucial win.

Como Park High School also marked its return to the state finals after a seven-year hiatus, narrowly overcoming Mahtomedi with a score of 1-0. Patrick Tennison scored the decisive goal, while goalkeeper Louden DeGaetano delivered a standout performance, securing a shutout with three crucial saves.

Other notable performances included a pivotal header from Michael Hernandez Ruiz that helped Simley defeat Cretin-Derham Hall and Eagan’s 2-0 victory over Rosemount, allowing the Wildcats to maintain their hopes of repeating as state champions. Mounds Park Academy achieved a remarkable 2-1 overtime victory against St. Croix Prep, marking the school’s first state tournament appearance since 2010.

Additionally, Maple Grove triumphed over Mounds View with a score of 2-1, while Blaine edged out Centennial, winning 3-2.

Girls’ Teams Join the Fray

On the girls’ side, Mounds View High School returned to the state tournament for the first time since 2022, overcoming Spring Lake Park in a nail-biting shootout that ended 10-9 after both teams remained scoreless through regulation and overtime.

Stillwater High School is also back in the state finals after a three-year absence, winning against White Bear Lake 2-1. Eagan secured its third consecutive trip to state with a solid 2-1 victory over Rosemount, matching Lakeville North’s achievement, which defeated Farmington 3-1.

Defending champions Mahtomedi continued their impressive run, easily advancing with a 3-0 win over Hill-Murray. St. Croix Prep demonstrated offensive prowess in a commanding 7-1 victory against Concordia Academy, while Hastings concluded its section run with a 5-1 loss to Holy Angels, where Ellen Neuharth notably scored four goals for the Stars.

The boys’ and girls’ state tournament quarterfinals are scheduled to take place next week at neutral sites. The semifinals and finals will follow the week after, hosted at the iconic U.S. Bank Stadium, promising an exciting conclusion to the high school soccer season.