The group stage of Snow Bowl 2026 concluded Thursday, finalizing the knockout round participants in both the U-15 and U-18 divisions at the event presented by The SWAG and YSC Academy.
In the U-15 division, Philadelphia Union and Borussia Dortmund played to a scoreless draw at WSFS Bank Sportsplex. The match determined the top seed for the knockout round. Philadelphia pressed aggressively throughout, but Dortmund’s defense held firm. Notable moments included a denied goal for Philadelphia in the second half and a late effort that struck the post. With this result, Dortmund secured the No. 1 seed while Philadelphia advanced as the second seed.
Philadelphia Union is a professional soccer team competing in Major League Soccer, with its main roster composed of professional players and facilities that include Subaru Park and dedicated training centers in Chester. The club emphasizes community involvement, youth development programs, and competitive matches for fans (https://www.philadelphiaunion.com/).
In U-18 action, Philadelphia Union drew 2-2 with Lyngby Boldklub after scoring an equalizer in stoppage time. Nicolai Hjulmand put Lyngby ahead before halftime, followed by Oscar Wind doubling their lead early in the second half. Jett Harrison started Philadelphia’s comeback, which was completed when Samuel Gallegos scored late to secure a draw.
Manchester United claimed a semifinal spot in U-15 play with a 1-0 win over Chicago Fire FC. Jaice Dore scored the decisive goal in the 44th minute after both teams missed earlier opportunities.
CF Monterrey overcame a two-goal deficit to draw 2-2 against Newcastle United in another U-15 match. Monterrey’s late equalizer earned them a place as the third seed for semifinals, while Newcastle fell short of advancing.
S.L. Benfica registered their first win of Snow Bowl 2026 by defeating Alberg NextGen 7-2 in an U-18 match marked by four goals from Nazif Inoussa.
The tournament now moves into its knockout phase on Friday with semifinals scheduled for both U-15 and U-16 divisions. Borussia Dortmund will face Manchester United while Philadelphia Union meets CF Monterrey in U-15 semifinals. In U-16 play, Philadelphia Union will compete against Borussia Mönchengladbach; S.L. Benfica faces Lyngby Boldklub for a spot in the final.
Additional showcase matches are planned throughout Friday with further scheduling details available on PhiladelphiaUnion.com.
