Irish Defeat Mexico U-18 National Team In Spring-Season Finale

The Notre Dame men’s soccer program wrapped up a busy and successful spring season on Friday, April 26, defeating a talented Mexico U-18 National Team in front of a sold-out Old Alumni Stadium by a score of 3-2.

“It was an honor to host one of Mexico’s youth national teams here at Notre Dame again this year,” said Notre Dame head coach Chad Riley.  “It continues to serve as a highlight of the year for our team and we are grateful to the Mexican Football Federation for their support.”

The Irish could not have asked for a better start to the friendly, scoring three times in the first 40 minutes of play to jump out to a 3-0 lead at the half.

Freshman Jack Lynn scored the opener, finding the back of the net off an assist from senior Felicien Dumas in the 18^th minute. Just three minutes later Lynn played the role of distributor, connecting with senior Ian Aschieris on a cross, who slotted past the keeper with his left foot to double the lead at 2-0.

In the 39^th minute the Irish scored the best goal of the night, as Lynn took on a number of Mexico defenders on a long run on the right flank before finishing at the far post to give Notre Dame three goals before the half.

The visitors battled back in the second stanza, scoring their first goal in the 66^th minute off a left-footed finish from Gerson Ogara. Mexico added a second goal in the 84^th minute to pull within one at 3-2 but the Irish defense stood tall in the closing minutes to come away with the 3-2 win.

“The game itself was tremendous, they were a great team and our team did a great job getting the victory, said Riley. “All in all, it was exciting, entertaining, and I know it helped us grow as a team tremendously.

“I would also like to thank everyone who came out to the match and made it a special atmosphere to compete in.”

With the win the Irish finished the spring schedule with a record of 6-1-2, including victories over Brentford Reserves (English side), Mexico U-18 National Team and Indiana. The two draws came against two English sides in Derby County U-18s and Players Centre.