The Esperanza Aztecs Men’s Soccer Team has spent the week gearing up for a very important game that is taking place on Saturday, February 28th, 2026 at Fred Kelly Stadium in Orange. The 2026 CIF Southern Section Ford Boys’ Soccer Championship. The boys will be going up against Santa Ana Valley. A tough opponent with a record of 18-2-3. 

We had the chance to sit down with two players on the team, Middle Forward Amilicar Zamora and Forward Eduardo Perez. Both seniors on the team, they both discussed how it felt to be playing in such a game with such high pressure! “It’s really exciting and fun being on the final stage.” Zamora said. He also mentioned that the team is preparing for the big game during their practices by learning the other teams routine and how they can manage to win off the duals and staying on task. Which is very important in these types of games.

Zamora also mentioned that the team’s chemistry has been really good since the beginning. “In the beginning, we didn’t really have much since it was a brand new squad so now it has become way better than before.” Zamora stated. 

Perez stated some accomplishments that he wanted to achieve during the game. “I wanna accomplish not letting my team down and just doing my best.” He said. 

A huge thank you to both Amlicar and Eduardo for taking the time to chat with us. Catch your Aztecs in action this Saturday at 10:30 AM at Fred Kelly Stadium. Best of luck to you both of you as well as to the rest of your team and all the coaching staff. Go Aztecs!!!