Youth Cup
S26 Youth Cup 'New Player Free Pick' Prize Draw
As is now traditional in Top 100, there will be a random draw to select three lucky winners?
The prize?
A free pick of ANY new player added to the database during S27!
All you have to do to be eligible is register for the S26 Youth Cup, arrange all your fixtures and set an eligible team for every game.
Easy, right?
Well, the bad news for 32 (!) managers is that it was too difficult and therefore they all forfeited the chance to be included in the draw.
Which is good news for the remaining 30 managers - their chances of winning just doubled!
- AC Milan
- Aston Villa
- Bayern Munich
- Besiktas
- Celtic
- Chelsea
- Club Brugge
- Cruzeiro (Ash)
- CSKA
- Dynamo Kyiv
- Espanyol
- FC Basel
- Genoa
- Hamburger
- Hertha
- Hoffenheim
- Independiente
- Levante
- Liverpool
- Man City
- Manchester United
- Olympiacos
- PSG
- Roma
- Sampdoria
- Sevilla
- Stoke City
- Swansea
- Tottenham
- Villarreal
(And in case you're thinking, "hang on there were 64 teams who entered the Youth Cup, what happened to the other two teams?" You're absolutely correct. But Doug and Paddy both quit Top 100 so I'm not including them in the draw.)
And if you think I made a mistake, please let me know asap.
The draw will be at 8 pm UK time on Monday evening - the start of S27 - and completed by RandomResult ticket number: 4063512M388EMK9DP
Youth Cup Carnage
YOUTH CUP GROUP STAGE FINALE: CHAOS, FORFEITS, AND UPSETS
As defending champions Barcelona stumble and forfeit fatigue grips the competition, one match remains to determine who joins the elite in the knockout rounds
They say lightning doesn’t strike twice, but someone forgot to tell the Top 100 Youth Cup. Last season delivered knockout drama that defied belief – Tottenham’s agonising defeat in Fictional Extra Time, CSKA’s maiden triumph – and now, with just one match remaining in the group stage, Season 26 threatens to surpass even that chaos.
The numbers tell one story: 64 academies entered, 32 will progress, and 25 teams have forfeited at least one fixture. The reality tells quite another. This has been a tournament plagued by absent management, squad selection blunders, and the kind of administrative shambles that would embarrass a Sunday league outfit, never mind the supposedly elite Top 100.
The Forfeit Epidemic
Let’s address the elephant in the room. PSV and Standard Liege have essentially abandoned the competition, forfeiting five and four fixtures respectively. Naples and Atalanta join them in disgrace with four no-shows apiece. These aren’t teething problems or isolated incidents – this is systemic failure from managers which makes you wonder how they manage to get dressed every morning.
Shakhtar, Newcastle, and Dynamo Moscow follow with three forfeits each, though in Dynamo’s case, there may be mitigating circumstances that warrant sympathy rather than censure. The same cannot be said for the dozen sides who’ve forfeited repeatedly. This level of inactivity simply isn’t fair on everyone else and it’s not up to the standards we expect from supposedly “Top 100” managers.
The suspicion lingers around Group B’s triple forfeit from Athletic Club, Montpellier, and Hoffenheim. Strategic withdrawals to dodge the Shield? Possibly. But as tournament organisers have made clear, those who repeatedly fail to fulfil their fixtures have forfeited their right to consolation silverware. Harsh, perhaps, but entirely justified.
The Perfect Three
Amid the carnage, three sides have maintained impeccable records. Espanyol, perennial bridesmaids in this competition, boast 18 points from six matches in Group B. Leicester City match that achievement in Group H, the former champions demonstrating that class remains permanent. But it’s Bayern Munich who’ve produced the tournament’s most impressive football, their Group F campaign yielding not just six wins but a goal difference that makes opponents weep.
These are your genuine contenders, sides that have treated the competition with the respect it deserves whilst others file teams sheets like afterthoughts.
Hamburger’s Unlikely Rise
The story of the group stage, however, belongs to Hamburger SV II. Seeded 28th in a group containing fifth-seeds Dortmund, they’ve navigated the chaos to top Group E with one match remaining. Yes, Dortmund forfeited their meeting with their German rivals, but that should not diminish an achievement that speaks to shrewd management and tactical nous.
Six teams remain in contention for three qualifying spots in Group E – a statistical improbability that reflects both competitive balance and the disruption caused by forfeits. The Zagreb-Dortmund encounter on the final day promises intrigue: a draw suits both parties and likely eliminates the chasing pack. Bremen should dispatch West Brom comfortably, whilst Brugge’s hopes rest on favours from elsewhere even if they beat Hamburg.
Group A’s Four-Way Shootout
Pre-tournament favourites Genoa have justified their billing with 15 points from six matches, their only defeat coming against Tottenham, last season’s runners-up who occupy second place with 13 points. These two have effectively qualified.
The real drama centres on PSG, Roma, and São Paulo, all locked on 10 points and scrapping for the final two berths. Roma travel to Tottenham knowing anything less than victory could prove fatal. Meanwhile, PSG host São Paulo in a straight shootout where goal difference may prove decisive. Three teams, two spots, and the distinct possibility of aggregate chaos determining who progresses. This is knockout football before the knockouts have even begun.
The Quiet Achievers
Group D sees Shield holders CSKA Moscow demonstrating their credentials once more, topping the group alongside Cruzeiro and Olympiacos. The fourth qualifying position remains contested between Independiente, Sampdoria, and Crystal Palace – evidence that squad depth and tactical flexibility trump reputation in this format.
Group G presents an oddity: an “open group” that has effectively closed. Hertha lead, Atletico and Basel follow, whilst Villa occupy fourth. All have qualified regardless of final-day results, yet all face opponents they’re expected to beat. The tournament’s most orderly group stands in stark contrast to the bedlam elsewhere.
Barcelona’s Defence Under Threat
The defending champions sit second in Group C, hardly the position of authority one might expect from last season’s dramatic victors over Tottenham. Manchester City, Barcelona, and Levante lead the group, with Stoke, Ajax, and Leverkusen hoping to join them. Barcelona’s forfeit hasn’t helped their cause, though they should still progress comfortably when Ajax visit on the final day.
It’s worth noting that Barcelona’s triumph last season came via Fictional Extra Time after 180 minutes failed to separate them from Spurs. That kind of fortune doesn’t strike twice, and their stuttering group stage suggests the hangover from that exertion may be lingering.
The Bigger Picture
Strip away the forfeit furore and what remains is a competition that has separated the wheat from chaff with ruthless efficiency. The top seeds – Genoa, Espanyol, CSKA, Bayern – have largely delivered. Of the 12 top seeds, only Brugge have failed to qualify. Mid-tier surprises like Hamburger and Crystal Palace have exceeded expectations.
This is precisely what youth football in a multiplayer simulation should deliver: meritocracy unfettered by real-world reputation or financial muscle. The managers who’ve invested time, tactical thought, and proper squad selection have prospered.
One matchday remains. Thirty-two teams will progress to the knockouts, with the sixteen Round of 32 losers joining the 16 best non-qualifiers in the Shield competition. For those who’ve repeatedly forfeited fixtures, there’ll be no consolation prize, no second chance. They’ve had seven opportunities to prove their commitment. They’ve failed.
The stage is set for knockout football that promises to be every bit as dramatic as last season’s finale. Barcelona will attempt to retain their Cup and Shield holders CSKA will challenge them along with Espanyol, Leicester, Bayern, and Genoa. And somewhere in the pack, perhaps Tottenham again, or a Hamburger or a Stoke will produce the kind of giant-killing run that makes this competition worth the considerable administrative headache.
Football, in its infinite capacity for both ecstasy and agony, prepares to deliver its verdict once more. For 32 teams, the dream continues. For the rest, there’s always next season – assuming they can be bothered to show up.
Tottenham's Miracle March Continues as CSKA Seize Control
The impossible becomes inevitable for Vilar’s warriors
If someone had suggested at the start of this tournament that Tottenham Hotspur would leave the Camp Nou with a 2-1 victory over Barcelona in a Youth Cup final first leg, they would have been dismissed as hopelessly deluded. Yet here we stand, witnesses to the continuation of the most remarkable underdog story in recent youth football history.
Pedro Vilar’s team have spent this entire campaign defying logic, overturning deficits, and making believers of the most hardened sceptics. Their latest act of sporting alchemy on Saturday night was perhaps their finest yet, a performance that combined tactical discipline with clinical finishing to leave Barcelona shell-shocked and Tottenham 90 minutes from glory.
Barcelona’s early promise evaporates in Catalan nightmare
Barcelona 1-2 Tottenham Hotspur (Youth Cup Final)
The script appeared to be following familiar lines when Lamine Yamal fired Barcelona ahead after just eight minutes. The teenage sensation, valued at £48 million and carrying the weight of Catalan expectations, found the bottom corner with the kind of finish that has made him the most coveted young talent in world football.
For a brief moment, order seemed restored. Barcelona, with their £162.5 million squad and galaxy of stars, had asserted their superiority over opponents valued at barely a quarter of that sum. The Camp Nou exhaled, confident that normal service would now resume.
But Tottenham, as they have done throughout this remarkable campaign, refused to read the script. Their response was swift and devastating, orchestrated by a player who has emerged as one of the tournament’s most compelling figures.
Julio Enciso’s name will be etched into Tottenham folklore after a first-half double that turned the final on its head. His 22nd-minute equaliser, a thunderous effort that flew in off the post from Fabio Miretti’s free-kick, served notice that Spurs had not travelled to Barcelona merely to make up the numbers.
The second goal, arriving just 15 minutes later, was a thing of beauty. Gabriel Vidović’s intelligent play released Enciso, who unleashed a blistering shot that left Ander Astralaga with no chance. The Camp Nou fell silent, save for the small pocket of travelling supporters who have witnessed miracle after miracle this season.
Barcelona’s response was predictable but ineffective. They enjoyed 54% possession and registered 14 shots to Tottenham’s 10, but their usual fluidity was disrupted by opponents who defended with the desperation of men protecting something precious. Three yellow cards for the hosts told the story of mounting frustration against a side that simply refused to yield.
Yamal remained Barcelona’s most potent threat, his rating of 9 reflecting a performance that deserved better support. But around him, talented players wilted under the pressure of expectation and the relentless pressing of opponents who had nothing to lose and everything to gain.
CSKA’s methodical masterclass sets up Shield triumph
CSKA Moskva 2-0 Bayer Leverkusen (Youth Shield Final)
While Barcelona grappled with the unexpected at the Camp Nou, CSKA Moskva were busy demonstrating why they have been the tournament’s most consistent and impressive performers. Their 2-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen was a masterclass in controlled aggression, patience rewarded with clinical finishing when the moments mattered most.
The Arena CSKA provided a suitably intimidating backdrop, with rain and 2°C temperatures creating the kind of conditions that separate the wheat from the chaff. Leverkusen, for all their technical ability and tactical sophistication, found themselves overwhelmed by the intensity of their hosts and the hostility of the environment.
The statistics tell the story of CSKA’s dominance more eloquently than words. Eighteen shots to seven, ten on target compared to three, and 57% possession reflected a performance that was commanding without being flashy. This was the work of a team that understands the demands of knockout football, patient enough to wait for their moments but ruthless enough to capitalise when they arrived.
Karim Konaté’s 55th-minute opener was reward for sustained pressure that had seen Jonas Urbig produce a series of spectacular saves to keep Leverkusen level. The striker’s finish, sliding the ball past the goalkeeper after excellent work from Nestory Irankunda, was the culmination of a first-half performance that had seen CSKA pepper the Leverkusen goal with efforts.
The second goal was a thing of beauty, substitute Lucas Lorran marking his entrance with a clinical finish after being teed up by the influential Franco Mastantuono. It was the kind of moment that separates good teams from great ones – the ability to find that decisive second goal that transforms a narrow advantage into a commanding one.
Leverkusen’s high-intensity pressing game, which had served them so well throughout the campaign, was nullified by CSKA’s patient build-up play and the challenging conditions. Estêvão, their £16 million star and the tournament’s most valuable player, managed a respectable performance despite the difficult circumstances, though he was unable to provide the spark his team desperately needed.
The reckoning awaits: second legs promise contrasting dramas
Youth Cup Final - Second Leg: Tottenham vs Barcelona
Tottenham’s position is as remarkable as it is precarious. They return to North London with a 2-1 advantage that puts them within touching distance of their first Youth Cup triumph, yet they face opponents who possess the quality to overturn any deficit.
The mathematics are simple but the psychology is complex. Barcelona need to score at least twice while keeping Tottenham out – a task that should be well within their capabilities given their superior individual quality. Yet doubt has crept into Catalan minds, the kind of uncertainty that can prove fatal in knockout football.
Pedro Vilar will demand more of the same from his players: disciplined defending, clinical counter-attacking, and the unshakeable belief that has carried them this far. They have already defied logic twice in knockout rounds; what is one more miracle?
For Barcelona, the challenge is as much mental as tactical. They must find a way to break down opponents who have mastered the art of defensive resilience while carrying the weight of expectation that comes with being overwhelming favourites. Adam’s team possesses the individual brilliance to hurt any opponent, but they will need to show the collective character that has so far eluded them in this final.
Youth Shield Final - Second Leg: Leverkusen vs CSKA Moskva
CSKA’s 2-0 advantage should be decisive, but football’s capacity for surprise means nothing can be taken for granted. They travel to Germany knowing that a disciplined defensive performance should be enough to claim their first Youth Shield, yet they face opponents desperate to salvage something from a campaign that promised so much.
Leverkusen must score at least three goals to lift the trophy, a task that seems beyond them based on Saturday’s evidence. Their high-tempo approach was comprehensively outmanoeuvred by CSKA’s patient game plan, and there is little to suggest that a change of venue will dramatically alter the dynamic.
For CSKA, the temptation will be to sit deep and protect their advantage. Yet this is a team that has scored freely throughout the tournament, and they may be better served continuing to play their natural game rather than adopting unfamiliar tactics.
The stage is set for sporting theatre
Two second legs, two contrasting narratives. Tottenham carry the hopes of every underdog story ever told, their impossible journey nearing its most unlikely conclusion. CSKA stand on the brink of confirming their status as the tournament’s dominant force, their systematic excellence deserving of the ultimate reward.
The beauty of knockout football lies not in its predictability but in its capacity to surprise, to elevate the ordinary and humble the mighty. Whatever unfolds in these return fixtures, we can be certain of one thing: the beautiful game will be the ultimate winner.
Youth Cup & Shield Semi-Finals: First Leg Drama Sets Up Tantalising Returns
CSKA Moscow lay down marker with Milan mauling
CSKA Moskva 4-0 AC Milan (Youth Shield)
There are emphatic victories, and then there is what CSKA Moskva served up to AC Milan at the Arena CSKA on Saturday night. This was not merely a defeat for the Rossoneri – it was a comprehensive dismantling that has surely ended their Shield ambitions before the return leg has even been contemplated.
Karim Konaté was the chief architect of Milan’s misery, his hat-trick a masterclass in clinical finishing. The striker opened the scoring on 11 minutes with a composed finish, doubled his tally from the penalty spot ten minutes later, and completed his treble six minutes into the second half with the sort of scuffed effort that somehow finds the net when everything is going your way.
Nestory Irankunda’s sublime strike off the post in the 41st minute was merely the cherry on top of what had already become a rout. Milan, deploying a desperately defensive 4-3-3 formation, were overrun in every department. The statistics tell their own story – 60% possession to CSKA, 14 shots to seven, and a chasm in quality that the scoreline perhaps even flattered the visitors.
Milan’s ultra-defensive approach backfired spectacularly. Manager tactics of sitting deep and hoping to catch CSKA on the break proved woefully inadequate against opponents who combined pace, power and precision in equal measure. The Italians will need something approaching a miracle at San Siro to overturn this deficit.
Leverkusen edge thriller in six-goal spectacle
Bayer Leverkusen 4-2 Sampdoria (Youth Shield)
If CSKA’s victory was a statement of intent, Bayer Leverkusen’s triumph over Sampdoria was pure box office entertainment. Six goals, end-to-end action, and a result that leaves this semi-final tantalizingly poised ahead of the return fixture.
Jayden Addai and Adrian Segecic emerged as the protagonists in this breathless encounter, each claiming a brace in a match that swung back and forth like a pendulum. Addai’s early opener set the tone, only for Vanja Vlahović to double Leverkusen’s advantage before half-time. Segecic’s response was immediate and devastating – two goals in six minutes either side of the interval to level the tie and serve notice of Sampdoria’s attacking threat.
But it was Estêvão’s moment of magic that proved decisive. The Brazilian’s free-kick on 58 minutes was a thing of beauty, bending around the wall and leaving the Sampdoria goalkeeper rooted to the spot. Addai’s second, seven minutes later, should have put the tie to bed, yet with Sampdoria carrying such menace in attack, Leverkusen will know their work is far from done.
The German side’s superior possession (62%) and shot count (26 to 14) suggests they controlled proceedings, but football is rarely that simple. Sampdoria’s two away goals could prove priceless currency in the return leg.
Barcelona survive Leicester scare in Camp Nou classic
Barcelona 3-2 Leicester City (Youth Cup)
At the Camp Nou, Barcelona discovered that reputation alone does not guarantee safe passage to finals. Leicester City, those perennial overachievers, served up a performance brimming with belief and quality that has left this semi-final hanging in the balance.
Kobbie Mainoo’s early strike suggested Barcelona might cruise to victory, but Leicester’s response was immediate and impressive. Florian Wirtz’s equaliser just before half-time was reward for the visitors’ bold approach, and when Kassoum Ouattara’s delightful chip found the net with six minutes remaining, Leicester had secured the sort of away goal that can transform ties.
Djeidi Gassama and João Neves had seemingly put Barcelona in command with second-half strikes, yet Leicester’s refusal to buckle speaks volumes about their character. Their attacking approach – matching Barcelona’s adventurous formation and high tempo – was vindicated by that crucial late goal.
Barcelona’s 58% possession and slight edge in shots (16 to 14) reflected their marginal superiority, but Leicester’s away goal means the Catalans’ advantage is more fragile than the scoreline suggests. The return leg at the King Power promises to be a nervy affair for the Spanish giants.
Internacional’s slender advantage built on solid foundations
SC Internacional 1-0 Tottenham Hotspur (Youth Cup)
While the other semi-final produced pyrotechnics, Internacional’s victory over Tottenham was built on more pragmatic foundations. William Osula’s 14th-minute winner – a scrappy affair that saw the Tottenham goalkeeper fumble the ball over the line – proved enough to give the Brazilians a slender but significant advantage.
The game’s defining moment came four minutes into the second half when Tottenham’s Mario García saw red for a crude challenge. From that point, Spurs were fighting a rearguard action, their ultra-defensive setup becoming a necessity rather than choice.
Credit must go to Internacional for maintaining their composure against ten men. Rather than forcing the issue, they controlled proceedings intelligently, content to preserve their lead while probing for the knockout blow that never quite came.
Tottenham’s resilience in adversity was admirable – they matched their hosts for shots (10 to 11) and created several decent chances through Goran Vidović. But they now face the daunting prospect of overturning a deficit without their suspended midfielder, though the narrow margin means hope remains alive.
The reckoning awaits
Four first legs, four contrasting narratives. CSKA appear to have one foot in the Shield final, while Leverkusen hold a commanding but not unassailable advantage. The Youth Cup remains wide open, with both Barcelona and Internacional holding slender leads that their opponents will fancy overturning.
The beauty of knockout football lies in its unpredictability, and if these first legs have taught us anything, it is that nothing can be taken for granted. The return fixtures promise drama, tension, and the sort of football that reminds us why we fell in love with the beautiful game in the first place.
S25 Youth Cup Knockout 1st Round Highlights
The first knockout round of the S25 Youth Cup, played on Saturday, June 21st, delivered on its promise of drama, with extra-time epics, huge upsets, and an unprecedented number of teams being eliminated from all competitions. When the dust settled, the field was significantly thinner, and the paths to both the Youth Cup and Youth Shield glory have become clearer. Here’s the full story of a wild weekend of knockout football.
The Extra-Time Epics: Dortmund & São Paulo Triumph in Thrillers
Two of the round's most anticipated clashes went the distance, requiring fictional extra time to find a winner. In a heavyweight battle, Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund played out a fantastic 2-2 draw in normal time. The back-and-forth affair continued into the extra period, where Dortmund ultimately found the edge, emerging with a stunning 4-3 victory to knock out the Red Devils.
It was just as tense between CSKA Moskva and São Paulo FC. After a hard-fought 1-1 stalemate, the Brazilian side showed their quality in extra time, securing a 3-2 win to advance to the next round and send CSKA to the Youth Shield.
Shock Results: Flamengo and Man City Crash Out!
The knockout stage immediately produced some colossal upsets. The biggest shock saw #12 seed and perfect-record holders CR Flamengo defeated 2-1 by #35 seed Stoke City. The result sends one of the tournament favourites to the Youth Shield and marks a massive achievement for Stoke.
In another major upset, Manchester City were knocked out by Brazilian side SC Internacional, who produced a fantastic performance to win 2-0. The result sees another of the top-seeded English teams fall at the first hurdle.
Disqualifications & Walkovers Thin the Herd
An unprecedented five teams were eliminated from all competitions this round. In a frustrating development, two of the round's most intriguing ties, Juventus vs. SL Benfica and FC Schalke 04 vs. Crystal Palace, were not played as the managers failed to organise the fixtures. As a result, all four teams have been removed from the competition entirely.
Furthermore, while Levante UD were initially defeated 5-2 by Dynamo Moskva, the result was overturned. Dynamo were found to have fielded their senior team and were subsequently disqualified. The official result is a 3-0 forfeit win for Levante, and Dynamo Moskva have also been removed from all competitions.
The Survivors: Who's Through to the Youth Cup's Last 14?
After a chaotic first round, just 14 teams remain in the hunt for the S25 Youth Cup. These teams will advance to the second knockout round. There will be two byes as a result of the failure of other managers to play their games.
- FC Barcelona
- Bayern München
- Chelsea
- Cruzeiro
- Everton
- Hertha BSC
- Leicester City
- Levante UD
- RCD Espanyol
- SC Internacional
- Stoke City
- São Paulo FC
- Tottenham Hotspur
- Borussia Dortmund
The New-Look Youth Shield
The Youth Shield has been bolstered by 13 teams dropping down from the main competition. They will join the 14 teams already waiting to form the new Youth Shield knockout bracket. There will be five byes as a result of other managers failing to organise their games or to set their teams.
The 13 teams dropping into the Youth Shield are:
- AC Milan
- Arsenal
- Atlético Madrid
- Bayer Leverkusen
- CSKA Moskva
- Feyenoord
- HAMBURGER SV
- Independiente
- Manchester City
- Manchester United
- RSC Anderlecht
- Sampdoria
- CR Flamengo
The draw for the second round of the Youth Cup (two legs) and the 1st Round of the Youth Shield (one leg only) are on the the Challonge website as usual. Please arrange your fixtures asap as games are on Saturday.
Youth Cup Knockout Stage: Qualification Explained
In my previous update I said that the top two in each group qualify for the knockout stages, which is true.
What I forgot is that we need 32 teams in the 1st Round, so that means the eight best third placed teams also qualify.
The best eight third placed teams are: SL Benfica Dynamo Moskva, Sampdoria, AC Milan, CA Independiente II, Stoke City, FC Schalke 04 and RSC Anderlecht.
Everyone else (bar Inter and Chievo who each forfeited three group games) drops into the Youth Shield.
The results and final tables can be viewed here.
The seeded draw for the main Youth Cup Knockout Stage is here.
1st Round is on 21 June, one leg only. Please arrange your matches.
Youth Shield will begin the following week and matches will be confirmed after the first round of Youth Cup games.
S25 Youth Cup: Goal-Filled Matches and Admin Drama!
YOUTH CUP GOAL FEST! Roster Blunders Spark ADMIN CRACKDOWN in S25 Opener!
By Our Man with the Notepad, Sideline Sid
SOUTHALL, ENGLAND - Sunday Morning
BANG! The S25 Youth Cup roared into life last night, serving up a feast of goals, dazzling performances, and enough off-pitch drama to make your head spin – even the Game World Administrator had to step in after some major squad sheet slip-ups! Strap yourselves in!
GOAL GLUT! BARCA & ESPANYOL RUN RIOT!
Where do we even start?! How about Barcelona, eh? Young Samu Aghehowa put Sevilla to the SWORD in a stunning 5-1 demolition! The Spanish sensation bagged TWO goals and laid on THREE assists! Boss Adam called him MOTM – no arguments here! "Glad to start with a win," beamed the boss!
Not to be outdone, Glen Mullan's Espanyol lads absolutely pulverised Olympiacos 5-0! Endrick nabbed a brace, but Facundo Bounanotte was the star – a goal AND three assists! "One way traffic!" hailed the gaffer, "extremely pleased!"
Elsewhere, Juventus dished out a 5-1 hiding to West Brom away, Bayern Munich whacked Valencia 5-0, Leicester smashed Udinese 4-0, and Man City & Dynamo Moskva both bagged tidy 3-0 wins! Talk about laying down a marker!
SPURS EDGE EIGHT-GOAL THRILLER!
Hold onto your hats! Pedro Vilar's Tottenham kids went to Atalanta and won a crazy 5-3 goal-fest! "Great start... massive winning!" declared the happy Spurs boss. What a match!
ADMIN CRACKDOWN! Marsden Reveals Roster Rule-Breakers!
RED FACES & RULE REMINDERS! Drama off the pitch as FIVE clubs – Independiente, West Brom, Crystal Palace, Chievo, and Everton – were caught out by eligibility rules! It seems simple squad selection errors were likely to blame – managers forgetting the crucial step of swapping senior players out for their designated youth cup squads! An easy mistake to make, but a costly one!
PRIZE DRAW PAIN! The gaffers of the five teams, due to the eligibility breach, have FORFEITED their chance to win the coveted end-of-season new player prize draw! A sharp reminder from the top brass to double-check those team sheets before hitting submit!
We already saw Independiente's match defaulted 0-3 after their boss admitted the error. It looks like the other teams avoided score changes this time, but couldn't escape the Admin's sharp eye when it came to the prize draw rules! Tough, but fair!
GAFFERS SOUND OFF!
Sir Stephen Beddows (Sampdoria): Hailed "Super Samp" after their 2-1 win and blooding a 15-year-old debutant! One for the future!
Dan Wallace (Man Utd): So chuffed with his U21s cruising 3-0 past Lyon, he might throw 'em in against Leverkusen TONIGHT! Gutsy!
Chris Meida (CSKA): Gutted with a 1-1 draw vs Milan despite a "strong display". That Konate penalty was their only reward.
David Marsden (Hamburger SV): (Speaking as manager this time!) Delighted with a "great team effort" seeing off Leverkusen 3-2 with a late winner! A good day at the office for him both on and off the virtual pitch!
TABLES TELL A TALE!
After the goal frenzy, Bayern edge Barca on goal difference in A, Espanyol lead B, Juve pip Feyenoord in C. And the teams caught by the Admin's ruling? Palace, Chievo, Everton prop up their groups pointless after 0-3 defeats, while West Brom also lick their wounds after that 5-1 loss. A double blow after the admin errors!
FINAL WHISTLE!
Phew! What a start! Goals, drama, and the Admin already busy laying down the law while also celebrating a win! The S25 Youth Cup has it ALL! Check those team sheets, gaffers – Big Brother Marsden is watching! Don't take your eyes off this space!
The Battle in Barcelona!
For the third season in a row, Leicester City were preparing for a Youth Final. Last season the Youth Cup, and the season before the Youth Shield. Both times the fans had walked away happy, their team named as Champion, and they were hoping to do so once again.
The route to the final and the clubs history here had given the fans a lot to be happy about. 12 wins, 0 losses. 44 goals scored, 7 conceded. 3 previous finals, 3 trophies.
Division 1 giants Bayern München, Barcelona and Chelsea had all been faced and beaten.
Next up, Earle's former club, RCD Espanyol.
Fans, players and pundits will all disagree on whether it is better to host the opening leg or host the second leg. Hosting the opener gives you the opportunity to build a lead to take with you on the road, but hosting the second leg allows you to, potentially, celebrate with the trophy at home in front of your own fans.
In either case, the away leg can be tough, in a hostile environment and an unknown stadium and city,
For Earle this was not a problem, as he is still welcomed back to RCD Espanyol by the club president and the fans due to the immense impact he had on the club when he arrived with them whilst in Division 5, setting in motion the forces which would take them to Division 1!
Saturday 15th March - Leg 1
The buzz around the King Power Stadium started early, with English and Spanish fans descending on the local pubs in preparation for the match. Spirits were high as the fan bases drank together, until one Englishman insulted a Spanish counterpart by referring to Madri as a "good traditional Spanish beer". A Leicester City representative confirmed that the fan had since apologised and had perhaps had one too many to drink, he acknowledged that Madri is just a jumped up Carling, and meant no disrespect to the Spanish fans.
With the mid day antics out of the way, attention turned to the stadium with the fans and media arriving.
Both teams had experience in Youth Finals, Leicester City hoping to make it 4 trophies from 4 finals, and RCD Espanyol hoping to make it 1 trophy from 4 finals, and perhaps that played a role in the early unfolding of the game.
Kick Off - after all the build up and the hype the game got underway with the result anyone's to call. That was for the first 5 minutes at least, and then a quick snappy move from Tel opened up the defence. The Frenchman set up Musiala who finished tidily to make it 1-0 in the 6th minute, with the nerves of Espanyol showing.
Following the quick start the game settled with even possession and chances, and the half ended at 1-0.
Espanyol made a change, taking off new signing Endrick for Buonanotte. The swap paid off, with the substitute levelling play in the 54th minute to liven up the away supporters. But in the midst's of their celebrations the cameras caught a quick whisper from Wirtz to Musiala, Musiala glanced at the the defender which Wirtz pointed at and gave his captain a nod. After the long 3 minutes of Spanish celebrations subsided, the game got back underway, Musiala blazed past his marker immediately, got the ball from midfield and fed Wirtz who put the ball in the net just seconds after kick off. Now it was Leicester's turn to celebrate, as the Espanyol side-line sat silent and dejected. Hope still remained though, with the game only at 2-1 it was still all on the line. But within 5 minutes the lead was doubled as Bergvall scored from outside of the box. Despite some good efforts the game ended 3-1. A solid lead, but not secure enough to be confident that the trophy was won for Leicester.
"There is still a lot to do, we have the lead, but anyone can overturn a 2 goal lead. Especially with the players they have and us being away next. Their fans will be backing them, and they will want revenge. The stats were even and today could have gone either way. I am looking forward to going to Barcelona for the next leg." The president and I are on great terms and he has invited me for dinner on Friday!"
The In-Between - 16th - 21st
With the first leg done, both teams turned their focus to the "final". That focus was distracted though. Espanyol had the Derbi Barceloni to play in the league on Sunday.
Leicester had different inconveniences to face, with away matches at Sporting in Portugal and Leverkusen in Germany ahead of the youth game, meaning there was very little time in Leicester in the week.
Both teams also made their intentions clear for the final making key additions to their youth ranks to bolster their chances. Leicester added long term target Pablo Gavi from Juventus, who came in to bolster the midfield for the last game, ahead of replacing Musiala on the wing next season. Espanyol went further though, bringing in a trio of midfielders. Marc Casado came in from Valencia in a trade, and Do-Young Yun returned for a fee of £234,200,000. They also made a blockbuster deal to bring in Pedri as a possible game changer for the final. Already 22, Pedri would only have 1 opportunity to write his name in the history books and help Espanyol win for the first time!
Saturday 22nd March
Similarly to the week prior, the day started early for players, media and fans alike. Home and away fans once again ate and drank together ahead of the game. The atmosphere was excited but friendly, until another mishap. A Leicester City fan had gone to a popular tapas restaurant, and asked for their famous local pizza. When he was corrected that the restaurant sold Spanish Tapas, he confidently explained that he wasn't stupid, and knew that Pizza was from Spain and so they should sell it there. Upon being kicked out of the restaurant it was discovered that he was the same fan who had caused issues the week before. Leicester City have since confirmed that the fans ticket was suspended and he was sent home to avoid any further issues. He was quoted saying "I didn't want any of that food anyway! I prefer proper good farm food, and I have seen some reports that there are a couple of good farmers to be found in Spain! And if it's on the interweb then it must be true!"
At the RCDE Stadium, Earle had arrived early to visit the staff and groundsmen who he had worked with before, and was greeted by a crowd of fans still grateful for his stint with the club which started over 9 years ago.
The stadium was much unchanged from his departure, but the glamour of reaching Division 1 was evident there.
The changing rooms that slight bit fancier, the ground had a slight bit more capacity, the pitch better kept. The trophy room sat with 3 "Youth Cup Final Participant" badges, and a 4th spot ready for another runners up medal, or maybe finally the Cup itself. But not the Shield, that tournament is considered a "losers competition". A statement which has caused confusion amongst some fans who have noted their lack of any youth trophy at all. But that could all change today!
Ahead of the game, Earle met with the media
"We are not looking to sit on our lead. We have won every game so far, and we intend to win this one too. I have a lot of love for Espanyol and the fans, but today that is put to one side. To see 2 teams which I managed from Division 5 upwards now meet in the Youth Cup Final is superb, and even now I am shown the appreciation from the fans and president that they wouldn't be here without the foundations laid down all those years ago in the toughest days the club faced, and carried on by the following managers and of course Glen now. But as I say, today that doesn't matter. As my counterpart said previously, 'no one remembers the losers', and I do not intend to be the loser today."
The teams were on the pitch, the stadium loud, and the excitement high to see the new Spanish signings of Pedri, Gavi and Casado.
A banner waved in the Espanyol stand "Earle - El regreso del salvador".
Another nearby hung over the rails "¡No puedes detener a Pedri!".
The dreams of the Espanyol faithful lay in the hands of an extremely talented squad, but even more so in their new star boy, Pedri! Signed to save the day, signed to create history! He would make the headlines tomorrow, that much the Spanish fans knew.
Leicester fans thought otherwise, between them, Wirtz and Musiala had combined for 29 goals and 28 assists so far, surely that wasn't going to stop now, and a 2 goal advantage the confidence was high. It was easy to tell which set of fans were making more noise, as chants in English rang around the stadium.
Kick Off - With the lead in hand Leicester started mor confidently, they kept the ball and took their time. A fancy move in midfield by Chaibi led to a late tackle by Pedri, earning him a yellow card early. The game remained stable with Leicester controlling possession. And then came the break, a quick run up the wing by Musiala caught the defence by surprise, Wirtz darted to the near post, tailed by defenders Martinez, Debast and Diouf, only to see the ball sail over all of their heads to the wide open Tel who finished with ease. After the celebrations, the players were headed back for kick off when there was a quick flash and Chaibi went down. No one saw why so VAR was was checked. In frustration at dropping to a 3 goal deficit, and having so little possession, Pedri had continued his earlier scuffle with Chaibi and elbowed him as he passed. With no choice, the ref issued a straight red card and Pedri shuffled off with tears to the boos of both the Espanyol and Leicester fans. Both sets of staff shook their heads as the superstar headed down the tunnel. So Espanyol fans were right, Pedri did make the headlines. A red card within 20 minutes of the Youth Cup final.
Down to 10 men and facing an attacking onslaught, Espanyol held on. But in the 42nd minute, Wirtz was brought down in the box for a penalty, which he tucked away with confidence. Half time saw the score at 2-0, with Espanyol failing to get a shot on target.
No changes came at half time, but like the first leg, Espanyol bounced back quickly, scoring in the 47th minute to restore some hope to the fans. But once again the excitement was short lived. Wirtz was taken down in the box for a second time, and put the penalty away as easily as his first. With that, Espanyol were done, they mustered no more shots on target for the remainder of the game. But Leicester weren't done, especially Tel. With assists from Musiala and Wirtz in the 72nd and 81st minutes the Frenchman wrapped up a superb Cup Final Hattrick, sealing an aggregate 8-2 win for Leicester.
The stadium remained full for the trophy ceremony. Espanyol collected their runners up medals as the fans chanted "at least it's not the shield! at least it's not the shield!"
Leicester raised the trophy to a full stadium, making it 2 Youth Cups back to back, 3 Youth Trophies back to back, and 4 youth Trophies in total.
"It was a great tournament for us, and a great tournament for Espanyol too. Unfortunately, todays game got away from them thanks to an early red card, and 2 clumsy penalties. I think we had it in the bag anyway, but it would be have been good to see the 2 teams go at it 11v11. Hopefully next season the opportunity presents itself once again as they are rapidly improving under Glen. But today is about Leicester and the players, Wirtz and Musiala have been immense this tournament, but Tel showed us his quality today as one of the best out there. Something he has shown in the first team too!
I would also like to pass on my congratulations to Flamengo for a great win in the Youth Shield. It is a massive achievement and Flamengo are becoming synonymous with trophies."
Wirtz ended the tournament with 22 goals and 11 assists, earning him the golden boot. Musiala chipped in with 9 goals of his own and 20 assists, taking home the Playmaker of the Tournament award.
Tel took home the match ball from the final after his electric hattrick.
And now the eyes are on next season, where Leicester City lose some key players.
Musiala and Chaibi are now ineligible, Colwill and Tel depart for Juventus and Ozcan joins Genoa. The moves leave some big holes to be filled but the like of Gavi, Nwaneri and Kwambwala will be looked to to step up and help the team continue in winning form.
But there are others who are ever improving. Barcelona are ever a threat as long as Lamine Yamal remains, and Juventus look reborn in the youth department with multiple new additions. Espanyol remain a threat with up and coming youngsters, and Flamengo will be looking to build on their Shield win. Spectators and pundits will also look on with excitement to see if Youth Cup legends Levante will re-enter next season after a hiatus this year.
Top 100 New Player Free Pick Prize Draw S24
Top 100 New Player Free Pick Prize Draw S24
Draw will be made at 7am UK time Wednesday 13 November.
https://www.randomresult.com/ticket.php?t=3823074Q3BQ5PFS26
Barcelona
Leicester City
Levante
Everton
Hellas
Juventus
Benfica
Espanyol
Inter Primavera
Internacional
Bayern
Club Bruges
River Plate
AC Milan
Aston Villa
Atletico Madrid
Flamengo
Independiente
Real Madrid
Sampdoria
Schalke
CSKA
São Paulo
Arsenal
Besiktas
Dynamo Moskva
Leverkusen
Manchester United
PSG
Celtic
Fenerbache
Hamburger SV II
Santos
Sevilla
Tottenham
Anderlecht
Shakhtar
• Number of teams to pick: 3
Note that prizes are for managers of the listed teams LAST season. So if a manager has moved since, they will still get the prize (e.g, PSG is Andy Kelly, Fenerbahce is Simon Thomas, Anderlecht is Neil Frankland, Shakhtar is Dan W). As for Milan, well I just hope they don't get picked.
A Celebration to remember in Madrid
Atlético Madrid Celebrates Youth Shield Victory with Unforgettable ParadeIn a dazzling display of pride and celebration, Atlético Madrid’s youth team paraded through the streets of Madrid on an open-top bus after clinching the coveted Youth Shield.
The atmosphere was electric as fans gathered to cheer on their young champions, a testament to the club’s commitment to nurturing talent from the ground up.
The parade kicked off at the iconic Metropolitano Stadium, where players and staff were met with an enthusiastic crowd. As the bus rolled through the city, chants of “Atleti!” filled the air, uniting supporters of all ages in a jubilant celebration of the club’s achievements. Among the highlights of the day was manager Gav Harmer, who made headlines not only for his leadership but for his celebratory antics.
In a lighthearted moment, Harmer raised the Youth Shield trophy high, taking a sip of champagne straight from it, much to the delight of fans and players alike. This playful gesture symbolized the joy of victory and the unity within the team.
As the bus approached the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, the atmosphere shifted to one of playful rivalry. In a cheeky move that captured the spirit of the day, Harmer decided to pull a moonie—flashing his backside—outside the home of rivals Real Madrid. This spontaneous act was met with laughter and cheers from the fans, embodying the competitive yet friendly nature of football in the city.
The parade concluded with a gathering in front of the Metropolitano, where players and coaching staff took to the stage to express their gratitude to the supporters. Harmer emphasized the importance of youth development in the club’s philosophy, reminding everyone that these young talents are the future of Atlético Madrid.
As the sun set on a memorable day, the celebration not only honored the achievement of the youth team but also strengthened the bond between the club and its passionate supporters. Atlético Madrid continues to stand as a beacon of hope and talent in Spanish football, and with moments like these, the future looks incredibly bright.May or may not of happened 😜
Youth Cup Prize Draw
UPDATE: And the winners are Regan at Hertha, Dario at Dortmund, and Dave Inglis at Zagreb (now at Villa). Well done all and many thanks to Gav for doing the live draw!
It's time for our seasonal prize draw for Youth Cup managers who didn't forfeit any games this season.
The draw will be done later today or tomorrow with three prizes of a free pick of any new player added to the database during S23.
The following clubs are in the draw. Let me know if you think I made a mistake.
Note that three managers moved clubs (in brackets).
| AC Milan |
| Anderlecht |
| Atletico Madrid |
| AZ Alkmaar |
| Barcelona |
| Bayern |
| Besiktas |
| Borussia Monchengladbach (Jay Jones/River Plate) |
| Celtic |
| CSKA |
| Dinamo Zagreb |
| Dortmund |
| Dynamo Kyiv |
| Dynamo Moskva |
| Espanyol |
| Fenerbache |
| Flamengo |
| Hamburger |
| Hellas Verona |
| Hertha Berlin |
| Independiente |
| Inter |
| Juventus |
| Lazio |
| Leicester City |
| Levante |
| Leverkusen |
| LYON |
| Manchester City |
| Manchester United |
| PSG |
| Real Madrid |
| São Paulo |
| Sassuolo |
| Schalke |
| Sevilla |
| Shakhtar Donetsk |
| Tottenham |
| Werder Bremen (Daniel Wythe/Santos) |
| VfL Wolfsburg |
For the record, here's the list of clubs that forfeited games and number of forfeits and old managers where they have since left.
Again, let me know if there's a mistake.
| Cologne | 5 |
| Montpellier | 4 |
| Standard Liege | 4 |
| West Bromwich Albion (Arturo Magnanensi) | 4 |
| Aston Villa (King Kev) | 3 |
| Sporting | 3 |
| Arsenal | 2 |
| Augsburg (Paddy D} | 2 |
| Club Brugge | 2 |
| Bordeaux | 2 |
| Chievo Verona | 2 |
| Benfica | 1 |
| Olympique MARSEILLE | 1 |
| Athletic Club | 1 |
| Chelsea | 1 |
| Fc Basel | 1 |
| Atalanta (Russell Jordan) | 1 |
| Villarreal | 1 |
| Twente | 1 |
| Samp | 1 |
| Torino | 1 |
| Genoa | 1 |
Youth Shield Final
Leicester City won their second Youth Shield beating River Plate 4-1 over two legs.
The two games were fairly even in terms of possession, but Leicester's superior quality won through.
Congratulations to Doug, and commiserations to Jay.
Youth Shield 2nd Round Results
My Hamburger were the shock winners on the night beating triple champions Juve, who had a five point average rating advantage.
Four fictional extra time games saw strong favourites Leicester edge past Hellas "the only club in" Verona, defending champions Milan crushed Spurs, former champs Lazio saw of Sevilla, and Arsenal sneaked past Chelsea.
Qualifiers for the Quarter Finals:
Leicester
Hamburg
Arsenal
Milan
River
Independiente
Kyiv
Lazio
Draw will be sometime today either live on FB or via RandomResult.com depending on what's going on at home.
Youth Shield 2nd Round Fixtures
All games are one leg only, to be played on Saturday 20 April, please.
Youth Shield 1st Round Draw
Now that 1st Round of the Youth Cup has completed, here is confirmation of the draw for the 1st Round of the Shield.
All games to be played over one leg this Saturday 13 April, please.
UPDATE: Chievo will get a bye into the 2nd Round due to Sporting forfeiting their Youth Cup game.
S21 Youth Shield Winners!
Congratulations to Milan and manager Andrew, who beat a very unlucky Benfica in the closest final we've ever seen in Top 100 history.
Both legs finished 2-1 to the home side, meaning the scores were still level after taking into account away goals, so the match was decided in controversial fashion with the long-standing, much maligned and much misunderstood and exclusive to Top 100 rule Fictional Extra Time.
There were some good teams in the Shield this season, so it was very competitive throughout.
Youth Shield
Fixtures for the Youth Shield on Challonge and below.
Rounds 1 and 2 are one leg only. Losers from the Youth Cup Round 1 will make up the draw.
Round 3 onwards is two legs.
Seeding as follows from the results of the Group Stage.
| Team | Position | Points | GD |
| CSKA | 3 | 4 | 0 |
| Leicester | 3 | 3 | 0 |
| Montpellier | 3 | 3 | 0 |
| Celta | 3 | 3 | -2 |
| Southampton | 3 | 3 | -1 |
| Benfica | 3 | 3 | -3 |
| Roma | 3 | 3 | -3 |
| Schalke | 3 | 3 | -4 |
| PSG | 3 | 2 | -1 |
| Atletico | 3 | 1 | -2 |
| Malaga | 3 | 1 | -4 |
| Besiktas | 3 | 1 | -4 |
| Villarreal | 4 | 1 | -3 |
| Leverkusen | 4 | 1 | -4 |
| Atalanta | 4 | 1 | -4 |
| Bayern | 4 | 2 | -5 |
West Brom actually finished 3rd in their group despite forfeiting all three games, so I excluded them (albeit not the new manager's fault), and included another 4th placed team instead.
Similarly, Dortmund and Gladbach had the same record as Bayern, but both forfeited one game whereas Bayern didn't forfeit any.