Momence’s route to the final carries an element of redemption. The team had reportedly lost 2-1 to Iroquois West less than a month earlier, but key players were unavailable that night. With a fuller squad in the semifinal, Momence appeared far more dangerous.
Augustin Ojeda opened the scoring, before Ulisses Garcia-Herrera struck three times to settle the contest. Garcia-Herrera’s message was direct ahead of the final.
“Estamos focados, vamos jogar duro, nos divertir e, esperamos, sair com a vitória,” he said, according to the report.
Momence is reportedly chasing its second regional title in three years, giving the final added significance for a group that believes its earlier setback no longer defines the season.
Manteno, meanwhile, is seeking a third consecutive regional championship. The report says the team has managed that pursuit without any seniors in the squad, placing greater responsibility on players who previously had smaller roles.
Gio Zuniga reportedly scored his 14th goal of the season in the semifinal, while Brady Ruff added two goals and moved to 13 for the campaign. Quinn Campbell, Jesus Alvarado and first-year player Landon Flanigan also found the net.
Coach Oscar Farfan has praised the influence of established players such as Zuniga, Dylan Polito and Jake Krisko, while trusting younger teammates to continue the program’s run.
Friday’s final will test whether Momence can turn its improved availability into another trophy, or whether Manteno’s next generation can extend a remarkable regional reign.