El Farolito’s soccer team captured its second National Premier Soccer League championship in three years, defeating the previously unbeaten Bristol Rhythm 3‑0 in the NPSL finals held in Virginia.
The match, played before a record crowd, showcased a squad that blends former professional players with Bay Area locals who hold day jobs, underscoring the club’s community‑first ethos.
A Roster of Experience and Everyday Workers
Head coach Santiago Lopez, son of founder Salvador Lopez, guided a lineup that includes alumni of professional leagues alongside teachers, engineers and service workers, illustrating the club’s mission to keep soccer accessible.
The Path to the Final
El Farolito navigated a demanding regular season and a series of knockout rounds, each test reinforcing the team’s cohesion. Their 3‑0 victory over Bristol Rhythm was marked by clinical finishing and a defensive masterclass that left the opposition without a single shot on target.
A Gateway to the Open Cup
As champions, the Bay Area side earns qualification for the 2027 Lamar Hunt Open Cup, the oldest ongoing soccer competition in the United States. The tournament, known for its single‑elimination format and historic upsets, will see El Farolito join a field that includes Major League Soccer and United Soccer League clubs.
Santiago Lopez expressed pride in representing the brand his father built, noting that the championship is as much a tribute to the supporters in the stands as it is to the players on the pitch.
The organization’s roots trace back to 1985, when Salvador Lopez founded the club with a vision of fostering local talent. Today, that vision is realized through a blend of heritage and fresh talent, positioning El Farolito as a perennial contender on the national stage.