Newcastle United's Under-13s side won the 2024 Under-13s Mina Cup after beating Chicago Fire via penalties in the final in Dubai last weekend.
United's youngsters won their opening two Group A fixtures on day one of the competition, claiming a 2-0 win against Empire FC, courtesy of Charlie Robinson's brace, before later securing an impressive 6-0 victory against Desert Falcon FC on Thursday following Brad Walton's double accompanied by strikes from Nathaniel Waldock, Robinson and Joe Johnston.
Despite a narrow 1-0 defeat in their group decider against Chicago Fire on Friday, the young Magpies booked their place in the final on Saturday with a 3-0 triumph against Under-13 Youth Football League champions, Spartans Academy Dubai, racing into a three-goal lead before half-time after goals from Ben Pearce, Connor Barker and Henry Dewhurst.
Newcastle faced a rematch with Chicago Fire in the final and, following a goalless encounter, lifted the cup in dramatic fashion after beating their American counterparts 5-4 on penalties.
Although Fire scored their first four penalties, two saves from Magpies goalkeeper Jack Dawson ultimately left Max Brown to score the winning penalty, who cooly held his nerve to slot his spot-kick into the net, wheeling off to celebrate with his teammates, staff and supporters.
The trophy was presented by former Manchester United and England striker Teddy Sheringham, capping off a memorable tournament for United's under-13 side.
Photographs courtesy of Jamal Bazzari