New York Red Bulls II, home to Ugandan stars Ibrahim Kasule Baba and Steven Sserwadda, are the 2025 MLS NEXT Pro champions after a thrilling 3-3 draw and tense penalty shootout victory over Colorado Rapids 2 at Sports Illustrated Stadium.
It was a rollercoaster of a final, full of goals, grit, and emotion.
The visitors struck first through Mamadou Billo Diop and James Cameron, taking a 2-0 lead inside the opening half. But Red Bulls II refused to fold.
Rafael Mosquera and Roald Mitchell scored in quick succession to level the game, sending the home fans into a frenzy.
The drama continued in the second half when Rapids 2 substitute Antony García put his team ahead in the 71st minute.
Moments later, Mosquera converted from the spot to complete his brace and drag the game into extra time.
With neither side able to find a winner, the title was decided by penalties.
Nate Worth, Mijahir Jiménez, and Andy Rojas scored confidently before goalkeeper Austin Causey became the here, saving one kick as another struck the post to seal the championship.
For Kasule and Sserwadda, the triumph capped a season of consistency and class, both playing key roles in Red Bulls II’s creative and attacking flow all year.
The win also delivered a dream start for Michael Bradley, the former U.S. national team captain, who lifted his first trophy in his debut season as coach.
The victory not only marks Red Bulls II’s revival but also signals a promising new era under Bradley, one that reconnects the club’s proud roots dating back to the old MetroStars days.
