Kicking High: MST Shines in a Day of Grit, Goals, and Penalties

A thrilling last second equalizer and tense penalty shootouts were some of the dramatic moments at the 2025 ISTAA Football Tournament. Five MST football teams competed with nine international schools at the November 15 contest. In total, 92 girls and 192 boys took part, according to organizers. The tournament has grown since 2018 when only 3 schools attended. Girls’ teams were reintroduced this year; the last year the tournament was coed was in 2022.

Though the smallest among the ISTAA schools, MST had regularly dominated the event in years past. But with half a dozen absences due to illness this year, the kids found ways to overcome their shorthanded sides with teamwork and a bit of heroism.

Battling to the Very End

The Boys G4-5 team streaked their way to second place. Guided by Coach Alex, they were unbeaten throughout the day, winning two and tying two which was enough to make it to the final against hosts BST. In the last match, Willow striker Takuma kicked a wonder goal from distance to make it 1-1. With the final down to penalties, BST clinched it after several shootout rounds. MSTers exhibited a gritty performance battling against home-field advantage. 

MST Prevails Over Germany

Coached by PE Teacher Carlos, the Boys G3-4 team finished in third place. After a tough 0-1 loss in their first match, the side rallied in the second game to win it decisively 2-0. The team fought their way to third place with their final game––after a 0-0 stalemate, the MST side won in penalties against the German school. 

Shorthanded but Spirited

Our youngest boys team, G2-3, tied their final game to finish fifth. “They played in good spirit and good energy,” said coach James, Head of School. Despite being shorthanded with some players out with the flu “they actually had a very resolute defence, only conceding a total of three goals in their three games.”

Last Second Heroics

Both the Girls G2-3 and G4-5 teams willed their way to the podium, finishing third. The athletes’ strong showing was punctuated by a dramatic finish in the younger team’s final match. Oak forward, Giulia, scored a goal to win their final contest in the very last second to make it 1-0, with the crowd erupting in cheers.

With dramatic finishes and gritty play, just about every match was decided by a goal or a penalty kick. The final result? A celebration of the fun of competition and a thrilling display of teamwork.

Wind Edward Kim