Barca Residency Academy’s four MLS Next teams traveled to Boyds, Maryland last week to take part in the MLS Next Flex that featured 256 teams looking to clinch a berth in the 2023 MLS Next Cup Playoffs.
The event includes 64 teams in each of the U-15, U-16, U-17, and U-19 age groups that qualified for the competition based on their points-per-game rank in the 2022-23 MLS NEXT regular-season division standings. Qualifying teams were drawn into 16 groups of four, and the winners of each of these groups will automatically qualify for the MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs.
Three of four Barca Residency Academy teams won their group at the event and earned a spot in the MLS Next Cup Playoffs this summer. Barca’s U19 group dominated their group as they poured in 16 goals while only conceding three vs. Breakers FC, Cedar Stars Academy, and Southern Soccer Academy. Barca’s U17s finished top of the table with wins over Real JFC and Cedar Stars Academy. While the U16s defeated Intercontinental FA and Bethesda SC to win the group.
Barca’s U16, U17, and U19 teams enjoy a short break before returning to campus for playoff preparation. The MLS Next Cup Playoffs will take place June 17-25 in Dallas, Texas.
