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MLS NEXT Fest stories

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United States

MLS NEXT Fest Sets the Stage for Four Elite Academies to Earn Their GA Cup Place

MLS NEXT Fest will once again offer non-MLS academies a pathway to the Generation adidas Cup, with four qualification spots available for Elite Academies ahead of the 2027 international tournament. The expanded event in Mesa, Arizona, will bring together thousands of teams and players, creating another opportunity for independent academies to earn a place alongside MLS sides and international clubs.

Lucas Aguirre · October 24, 2026

United States

MLS NEXT Sets the Stage for a Bigger 2026-27 Season

MLS NEXT has confirmed the dates and locations for its major 2026-27 events, including MLS NEXT Fest, Generation adidas Cup, MLS NEXT Flex and MLS NEXT Cup.

Lucas Aguirre · October 5, 2026

MLS NEXT Returns: What to Expect from the 2026-27 Season

The 2026-27 MLS NEXT season begins on September 5, with MLS and independent academies set to compete under the league’s unique age-group format as key event dates remain to be announced.

Lucas Aguirre · August 30, 2026

United States

Beyond the Scoreline: Cedar Stars vs. IFA U-15 Analysis

The collective game intelligence on display from both Cedar Stars and IFA reflects the environments these players are being developed in.

Will Boehmer · December 18, 2025

United States

MLS NEXT Fest Power Rankings Across All Age Groups

MLS NEXT FEST offers a panoramic look at the current state of youth development across the United States, covering the U-13 through U-17 levels with a refined methodology that reflects the progression of each age group.

Lucas Aguirre · December 2, 2025