Chula Vista FC’s B2006 (U19) and B2011 (U14) Squads Qualify for MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs and Showcase!
Both Chula Vista FC’s MLS NEXT B2006 (U19) and B2011 (U14) squads have officially qualified for the 2024 MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs and Showcase, to be held from June 14th to June 22nd at the renowned Richard Siegel Soccer Complex in Nashville, Tennessee.
This monumental achievement follows a historic first-place tie in the Southwest (South) Division with the elite Barca Residency Academy, securing the B2006 (U19) squad’s place among the nation’s best at the MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs.
For Eden Esquerre, Chula Vista FC’s Technical Director and Head Coach of the B2006 (U19) team, this qualification is more than just a sporting milestone—it’s a story of resilience, determination, and unshakable belief.
A Remarkable Turnaround
The journey to this point was far from smooth. The B2006 squad endured a challenging start, going 2-6-3 in MLS Flex play. To make matters more difficult, Coach Esquerre was informed mid-season that his tenure at Chula Vista FC was coming to an end.
Rather than be discouraged, Esquerre embraced the adversity, vowing to finish strong and leave behind a legacy. With the full backing of Academy Director Jose Hector Diaz, who recognized the team’s steady improvement, Esquerre and his players redoubled their efforts. Their determination culminated in an extraordinary run—winning 11 of their final 17 matches, including a dominant 8-1-1 divisional record.
Reflecting on this emotional journey, Esquerre shared:
“I didn’t want to leave Chula Vista FC without leaving something meaningful behind. Hector believed in the progress we were making game by game, and time has proven him right. All the hard work has lifted us to this level. We’re not just showing up—we’re competing. This is the first time a CVFC U19 squad has qualified for the MLS NEXT Cup, and it means everything to us. I’m thrilled for the players, the club, and for myself. We’ve earned this. It’s a well-deserved reward for the relentless effort we’ve put in, and we’ll approach the Cup with a winning mentality.”
Speaking about his coaching philosophy, Esquerre added:
“It hasn’t always been easy for my players. I’m a demanding coach the moment I step onto the pitch. I have a very specific vision for how soccer should be played, and that can be challenging for players to grasp at first. But once they understand the concept, it becomes second nature—and the results speak for themselves.”
Leaving a Lasting Legacy
Esquerre’s impact on Chula Vista FC is undeniable. His leadership has helped shape one of the most successful seasons in club history at the MLS NEXT level.
- The B2010 (U15) squad qualified for MLS NEXT Flex after going undefeated and finishing a close second in their division.
- The B2011 (U14) team concluded another stellar season with a 20-8-4 record, following last year’s extraordinary 28-2-2 campaign, securing back-to-back qualifications for the MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs.
- And now, the B2006 (U19) squad has carved their name into club history, tying the formidable Barca Residency Academy for first place in the division.
Following the MLS NEXT Cup, Esquerre will return to his native Spain, marking the close of a transformative chapter for Chula Vista FC. His departure will be felt deeply across the club—from players and coaches to parents and administrators—who will always consider him a cherished part of the Chula Vista FC family.
Thank you, Eden Esquerre, for your invaluable contributions and best of luck on your next journey!
What’s Next?
- B2006 (U19) squad: Will face Sockers FC in Round 1 of the MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs Round of 32.
- B2011 (U14) squad: Will take on TSF Academy in Round 1 of the MLS NEXT Cup Championship Bracket.
The MLS NEXT Cup Playoffs and Showcase is the premier event of the season, featuring the top 32 teams from across the country competing for national titles in four age groups: U15, U16, U17, and U19. The event will run from June 14–22 at the Richard Siegel Soccer Complex in Nashville, Tennessee.
Teams that did not qualify for the Cup Playoffs, as well as the U13 and U14 squads, will participate in the highly competitive MLS NEXT Cup Showcase, which offers additional opportunities for players to compete in front of scouts, coaches, and evaluators.
Chula Vista FC continues to rise.
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