The U.S. U-18 Men’s National Team beat Japan in a shootout after a 1-1 draw in the International Youth Tournament of Vaclav Jezek. Three LA Galaxy Academy players helped contribute to the team's success, including defenders Julian Araujo and Leonardo Sepulveda, as well as forward Ulysses Llanez.
Llanez scored the only goal for the U.S. in the final against Japan. He also recorded four assists during the tournament. Araujo started in two games and was subbed on against Bulgaria. Sepulveda also started in two games for the U.S. U-18s team.