Academy for Technology and the Classics Advances to Quarterfinals
The Phoenix secure their spot in the 1A/3A quarterfinals after defeating the Monte del Sol Dragons.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Soccer
The Academy for Technology and the Classics Phoenix defeated the Monte del Sol Dragons to move forward in the state tournament. This victory earns the Phoenix a place in the upcoming 1A/3A quarterfinals.
Why it matters
Advancing through the bracket is critical for maintaining championship contention. The win keeps the Phoenix on the path toward the title.
The match remained scoreless until the 65th minute when the Phoenix successfully found the net against Monte del Sol. This late-game breakthrough secured the victory in a contest where the Dragons were anchored by eighth-grade goalkeeper Orlando Silva.
The players
Academy for Technology and the Classics
This is a secondary school that fields the Phoenix athletic team in local and regional competitions.
Monte del Sol
This is a secondary school that fields the Dragons athletic team in local and regional sports.
Orlando Silva
He serves as the eighth-grade goalkeeper for the Monte del Sol Dragons soccer team.
The details
The Academy for Technology and the Classics managed to break the defensive stalemate late in the second half. The team now prepares for the next stage of the 1A/3A tournament.
Timeline
October 28, 2026: The Phoenix defeated the Dragons to advance.
Season Trajectory
This victory keeps the Phoenix firmly in the competitive hunt for the state title as the bracket narrows. It represents a significant progression in the 1A/3A state soccer tournament, determining which teams move forward to contend for the championship.
The Phoenix have officially secured their spot in the 1A/3A quarterfinals, shifting the tournament bracket and eliminating the Dragons. Players and coaches must now immediately begin scouting and preparation for their next tournament opponent.
The takeaway
Tournament play requires high levels of late-game stamina as evidenced by the 65th-minute breakthrough. Consistency throughout the full match remains the most reliable indicator of post-season success.
Further reading
Stay updated on local tournament results by visiting our Soccer section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Santa Fe New Mexican.
