Parsippany, NJ – March 23, 2025
A match for the ages. A comeback for the history books. The Ironbound SCP Over-30 team delivered an unforgettable performance on Sunday, March 23, as they faced off against U.A.E.A Chornomorska Sitch Soccer Club in the NJ Final of the Gerhard Mengel O-30 National Cup at Smith Field Park in Parsippany, NJ. With a stunning comeback and a nerve-wracking penalty shootout, SCP emerged victorious, securing the NJ National Cup Qualifier title and earning the right to represent New Jersey in the Regional Round.
A Clash of Titans with a Century of History
The intensity was palpable from the start. These two storied clubs, both founded in Newark—Sport Club Português in 1921 and Ukrainian Sitch SC in 1924—brought their long-standing rivalry to the forefront in this high-stakes final.
From the opening whistle at 1:00 PM, the home team, Sitch SC, took full advantage of their crowd support, pressing forward with high energy and precision passing. Their aggression paid off early as they struck first, taking a 1-0 lead that sent their fans into a frenzy. SCP remained composed, sticking to their game plan of controlled build-up play and patient passing. Despite several promising attacks, the Portuguese side was unable to find the back of the net before halftime. As the referee signaled the break, the score remained 1-0 in favor of Sitch SC.
A Second-Half Comeback for the Ages
Manager Sérgio Nobre made crucial tactical adjustments during halftime, but the second half started just as the first had—with SCP controlling possession, but Sitch SC capitalizing on a moment of weakness to double their lead to 2-0.
Despite the setback, SCP’s belief never wavered. Voices echoed across the field as the players urged each other to stay calm and focused. That resilience paid off when Jason Tavares latched onto a long pass from the left wing and clinically slotted the ball home with his right foot, cutting the deficit to 2-1. The momentum shifted entirely in SCP’s favor. Minutes later, Ricardo Oliveira delivered a perfectly struck free kick to level the game at 2-2.
With their confidence soaring, SCP continued their relentless attack. The breakthrough came when Edgar Abreu completed the stunning turnaround, netting SCP’s third goal to give the Portuguese side a 3-2 lead. The crowd roared in disbelief and excitement, SCP’s bench erupted, and victory seemed imminent.
Late Drama and Penalty Shootout Heroics
Just as the final whistle was about to blow, the drama reached new heights. In the 93rd minute, Sitch SC stunned the crowd with a last-gasp equalizer, sending the game into a penalty shootout.
Tension filled the air as the teams lined up for spot-kicks. Both teams displayed nerves of steel, but SCP remained perfect from the spot. With SCP converting all five of their penalties and their goalkeeper stepping up with a crucial save, the Ironbound club sealed their victory in dramatic fashion.
A Celebration Fit for Champions
With this victory, Ironbound SCP clinched the NJ National Cup Qualifier title and earned the right to represent New Jersey in the Gerhard Mengel O-30 National Cup Regional Round. Their next challenge awaits on April 13, when they travel to Connecticut to face Cheshire SC United in the quarterfinals.
After the match, a proud and emotional Coach Sérgio Nobre praised his team for their resilience and unwavering belief.
“The team never lost faith, never gave up. We stuck to our game plan, and that made all the difference. This win means everything, and we’re proud to represent New Jersey in the next stage,” Nobre stated.
The celebration didn’t stop at the field. The team made their way back to their historic clubhouse at 55 Prospect Street, where they placed their newest trophy among the many that symbolize the club’s long and storied history.
Looking Ahead
The Gerhard Mengel Over-30 National Cup, organized by the United States Adult Soccer Association (USASA), is one of the most prestigious competitions for veteran players in the country. Named in honor of Gerhard Mengel, a former National Cup Commissioner and recipient of the Werner Fricker Builder Award, the tournament showcases the skills and passion of seasoned soccer players nationwide.
With their legacy secured and their eyes set on the regional round, Ironbound SCP Over-30 continues to embody the fighting spirit of Portuguese soccer in New Jersey. The next chapter in this thrilling campaign will be written on April 13—SCP’s road to national glory marches on!
