With more than 100 fans cheering from the bleachers, Garfield High’s boys’ soccer team delivered a strong performance at the inaugural CIF State Division V championship game on Saturday morning. Despite their efforts, the Bulldogs fell 2-0 to Ross Branson at Natomas High.

Two communication errors on defense proved costly for Garfield as they battled hard throughout the match. The team had traveled from East Los Angeles by bus on Friday, stayed overnight, and were scheduled to return after the game.

Coach Pablo Serrano praised his squad’s effort, saying, “I felt we played outstanding.” He also highlighted the standout performance of goalkeeper Javier Zarate. “He can only do so much,” Serrano noted, acknowledging the keeper’s crucial role.

In a heartfelt moment, Zarate approached CIF executive director Ron Nocetti without prompting to thank him for establishing what will become an annual state soccer championship event.

In related action on Friday, Irvine University claimed the Division IV boys’ title with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Del Mar. Goals were scored by Cole Barkett, Jake Raboid, and Brendan Leung, sealing the win for Irvine.
https://www.latimes.com/sports/highschool/story/2026-03-14/cif-state-soccer-championships-2026-results