Real Houston Wins USSL Final in Dramatic Penalty Shootout Over AC Houston Sur

Pics: @catalanoflicks

Richmond, TX – On a cold, rainy night at George Bush High School, the 2024 USSL Final between Real Houstonand AC Houston Sur was a battle of grit and endurance, culminating in a dramatic penalty shootout. Despite challenging weather conditions, both teams fought until the very end, but it was Real Houston who emerged victorious to claim the championship.

Full-Time Stalemate: A Gritty Battle in the Rain

With a 9 PM kickoff, both teams had to endure the harsh cold and rain, making ball control and footing difficult. The first half was a defensive chess match, with neither side able to break through.

As the game progressed, it opened up, and late in the second half, both teams had big chances to win it. Real Houstonand AC Houston Sur each found themselves in dangerous positions, but both sides failed to capitalize on their close-range opportunities, sending their shots off target.

Turning Point: AC Houston Sur Reduced to 10 Men

With 17 minutes left in regulation, the game took a major turn as AC Houston Sur received a red card, forcing them to play with 10 men for the remainder of the match. Despite the disadvantage, they defended resiliently and managed to push the final into penalties.

Penalty Shootout: Real Houston Holds Their Nerve

With no goals in regulation, the title came down to a penalty shootout, and it delivered pure drama:

1️⃣ AC Houston Sur #7 – Scored (Bottom left)
2️⃣ Real Houston #17 (Captain) – Scored (Bottom left)
3️⃣ AC Houston Sur Goalkeeper – Scored (Left)
4️⃣ Real Houston – Scored (Bottom right)
5️⃣ AC Houston Sur #20 – Scored (Bottom)
6️⃣ Real Houston #16 – Scored (Right)
7️⃣ AC Houston Sur #4 – Scored (Upper left)
8️⃣ Real Houston #18 – Scored (Bottom left)
9️⃣ AC Houston Sur #3 – ❌ Missed – Saved by Real Houston goalkeeper Juan Romero
🔟 Real Houston #5 – Scored 🏆 (Winning penalty!)

With Juan Romero's crucial save and Real Houston #5 converting the winning shot, Real Houston officially became the USSL Champions.

Real Houston Crowned USSL Champions

Through tough weather, a scoreless regulation, and a high-pressure shootout, Real Houston proved their resilience and lifted the USSL trophy in dramatic fashion. Their ability to stay focused in challenging conditions cemented their place as the league’s best.

Final Score:

🏆 Real Houston (6) 0 - 0 (5) AC Houston Sur