G08 Qualifies for Nationals

On Saturday, October 10, FIERCE G08 traveled to Houston to kick off its run at the STXCL Open Cup. The tournament serves as the pathway to US Club's prestigious National Cup in the summer of 2026. The team had their sights set on the prize: advance out of group play and win the finals to earn their spot at Nationals.

Group play began Saturday with a solid 3-0 outing against Rise SC. The following day, G08 returned to the pitch for a second shutout win (2-0) against Sting CC. For their final group match, and second match of the day, FIERCE had a dominant performance against LTFC with a 4-0 result. It was a strong display of FIERCE G08's defensive prowess, keeping 3 clean sheets among group play.

The next morning, FIERCE stepped onto the pitch for the Final against AHFC East. 08G took control of the game early, scoring in the 20th minute of play. The drive began from the backline, with right-back Mia N. sending a ball forward. After a cheeky back-heel flick from Aubrey W., Nova F. quickly collected the ball and connected with a streaking Montse H. at the top of the box. Montse made no mistake placing the ball into the backside corner. FIERCE's second goal of the match came early on in the second half, with Araceli P. winning a bouncing ball and initiating a counter attack. The ball fell to Aubrey, who set Montse up for a drive down the middle of the park. She made quick work of her defender and drove straight to goal, putting the ball in the corner with a flick off the outside of her right foot. AHFC East fought back, claiming one goal off a long-range free kick that kissed the underside of the cross bar. FIERCE G08 responded soon after with their third goal of the match. Claire L. started the attack with a slipped through ball to Ashley G. on the right wing. After carving up two defenders on the dribble, Ashley slotted the ball to a waiting Claire who used her physicality against bodies in the 6 to put it away. Claire's goal sealed the match with a final scoreline of 3-1.

The Goals That Clinched Nationals

With a perfect 4-for-4 showing at the Open Cup, FIERCE G08 earned an automatic berth to the US Club National Cup Finals in July! Coach Kamille expressed her overall thoughts on the weekend:

"I am so very proud of this team and the class and grit they showed over the weekend. I am inspired by the determination of this group to qualify for Nationals in their first ever US Club qualifying event. I am so excited to finish our season strong and compete in July for our first US Club National Championship! This group is so special and I am so happy that I get the opportunity to be with them and witness their amazing accomplishments. I'm excited to see what else we can accomplish this year!"

With their first job on the road to Nationals complete, G08 now orients its focus to the National Cup Finals in Colorado next summer. FIERCE looks forward to supporting them on yet another club quest for a Nationals Title!