Sharks secure a date vs Eastern Florida

The Miami Dade Sharks advanced to the District Finals with a commanding 3-1 victory over USC Sumter in the district semifinals, showcasing resilience and sharp offensive skills throughout the game.

The match started tensely for the Sharks, as USC Sumter drew first blood in the opening minutes with a penalty kick from Ignacio Gonzalez, who calmly converted to give USC Sumter a 1-0 lead. This early goal fueled USC Sumter's energy, but Miami Dade didn't let the setback shake them. Determined to respond, the Sharks launched a series of attacks, with Jeremy Levivier and Eduardo Cornejo coming close but missing narrowly, including Cornejo's shot that bounced off the post. USC Sumter's defense, meanwhile, struggled to maintain composure, earning two yellow cards in the early minutes.

Miami Dade's relentless offensive eventually paid off. In the 26th minute, star forward Facundo Ochoa found the back of the net, securing his 11th goal of the season to level the score at 1-1. Ochoa's goal shifted the momentum as Miami Dade continued to press, with Diego Luengo and Joao Pedro Dos Santos adding further pressure through multiple corners and shots. Despite USC Sumter's defensive efforts, Miami Dade dominated possession and kept the ball largely in the attacking half.

The second half saw Miami Dade come out even more aggressively, aiming to break the deadlock. Facundo Ochoa and Edoardo Duchini both had close calls, with Duchini hitting the post at the 50th minute and Ochoa's shot narrowly blocked. The game grew increasingly physical, with multiple fouls and yellow cards for both sides as the clock wound down. USC Sumter struggled to regain their early rhythm, and goalkeeper Juan Jose Montoya was kept busy, making saves to keep the score level.

In the 81st minute, Ochoa struck again. This time, after a precise assist from Kyle Reid, he converted the opportunity to give the Sharks a 2-1 lead. With USC Sumter now on the back foot, Miami Dade seized control of the game's pace, looking to secure the win in the final minutes.

Just before the final whistle, Alejandro Cumplido scored Miami Dade's third goal, sealing the match at 3-1 and sending the Sharks into the finals with a strong finish. The victory reflected Miami Dade's determination and tactical discipline, as they overcame an early deficit to dominate the game and secure their spot in the District Finals. The winner of tomorrow's matchup secures a bid to the NJCAA National Tournament held in Kansas.