The Lincoln-Way West boys varsity soccer team secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Stagg in the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Sectional Semi-Final on Tuesday night, advancing to the sectional championship round.
The match occurred on October 28, 2025, at Lincoln-Way West High School in New Lenox, Illinois. Lincoln-Way West’s only goal was scored in the first half when junior forward Cohen Cox netted from an assist by senior midfielder Michael Sallese. The Warriors’ defense maintained their lead throughout the second half, preventing Stagg from scoring with disciplined positioning and timely clearances. Goalkeeper Luke Hernandez achieved his third consecutive postseason shutout, leading a defense that has not conceded any goals during the playoffs. This victory improved Lincoln-Way West’s playoff record to 3-0 and extended their winning streak to five matches overall.
According to upcoming plans, Lincoln-Way West will compete against the winner of the Lincoln-Way Central vs. Lincoln-Way East matchup in the Sectional Final on Saturday at 11 a.m., hosted at Lincoln-Way West High School. The victor will progress to the IHSA Super-Sectional round.
In a previous encounter earlier this season, Lincoln-Way West also triumphed over Stagg with a 2-1 win in a closely contested nonconference match on September 10 in Palos Hills.
