THE MP United Boys U13 soccer team delivered a masterclass in defense and late-game heroics, going undefeated without conceding a single goal to claim back-to-back championships at the Pacific Ocean Cup POC XI in Japan on Saturday, Aug. 31.
MP United began their campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Anthem FC. Captain Quido Jambor set the tone early, netting the game-winner with a precise strike into the top right corner to seal their opening win.
Their next match proved to be the true test against tournament favorites SS Izu FC. The game was intense and back-and-forth until Jose Tenorio stole the spotlight with a sensational late-game performance. With just two minutes remaining, Tenorio capitalized on a long throw-in to break the deadlock, then followed with a clinical finish on a quick counterattack, and capped it with a dramatic stoppage-time header to complete his hat-trick and secure a 3-0 win.
MP United carried their momentum into the third match against Kitaue SC. Anchored by defenders Kanoa Owens and Mateo Angeles, the backline held firm in a scoreless duel until Jambor once again delivered in the clutch, lofting a last-minute lob over the goalkeeper to clinch another nail-biting 1-0 victory.
In the final match against host club Vivid Blue, MP United needed only a draw to secure the title. Vivid Blue pressed relentlessly, but goalkeeper Jiade Benson produced a string of brilliant saves to keep the score level. With two minutes left, Evan Poole put the game out of reach with a powerful left-footed strike on the counter, sealing a 1-0 win, a perfect tournament run, and the championship crown for the second straight year.
With a flawless 4-0 record and a 6-0 goal differential, MP United captured their second consecutive Pacific Ocean Cup title in Japan and their third overall, including a previous win on Saipan.
The undefeated run showcased not only the team’s talent and discipline but also their remarkable poise under pressure. The tournament’s MVP award went to MPU’s defensive anchor, Kanoa Owens, for his outstanding contributions throughout.
MP United also recognized and thanked the support of IT&E, I Love Saipan, Marpac, and other sponsors.
The MP United Boys U13 soccer team members pose for a group photo with the championship trophy of the Pacific Ocean Cup POC XI in Japan on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2025.
Contributed photos
MP United Boys U13’s team captain Quido Jambor and Kanoa Owens pose with the championship and MVP trophies.
