Salado High School aims to dethrone four-time state champion Celina

The Eagles seek to end Celina's dynasty in the state title match this weekend.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 10:40am

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The Salado High School boys soccer team is gearing up to face off against four-time defending state champion Celina High School in the upcoming state title match. Salado, led by star striker Javier Hernandez, is looking to knock off the powerhouse Celina squad and claim their first state championship in program history.

Why it matters

Salado has been knocking on the door of a state title the past two seasons, only to fall short by a single goal each time. This matchup represents their best chance yet to finally break through and end Celina's stranglehold on the state championship.

The details

Salado advanced to the state final by defeating Midlothian Heritage 3-1 in the semifinal round. Celina, meanwhile, cruised past Boerne 4-0 to secure their spot in the championship game. The Eagles will need a big performance from Hernandez, who has scored 35 goals this season, if they hope to dethrone the four-time defending champs.

  • The state title match is scheduled for Saturday, April 12, 2026.
  • Salado lost in the state final by a score of 1-0 in both 2024 and 2025.

The players

Javier Hernandez

Salado High School's star striker who has scored 35 goals this season.

Celina High School

The four-time defending state champion boys soccer team.

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What they’re saying

“We've been so close the past two years, but this is our year. The boys are hungry and ready to make history.”

— Salado Head Coach, Mike Thompson

“Salado is a tough opponent, but we've been in this position before. Our guys know what it takes to win a state title, and we plan on doing it again.”

— Celina Head Coach, Sarah Gonzalez

What’s next

The state title match between Salado and Celina will take place on Saturday, April 12, 2026 at 7:00 PM local time.

The takeaway

This matchup represents a classic David vs. Goliath scenario, as the upstart Salado Eagles look to dethrone the four-time defending champion Celina Bobcats and claim their first state soccer title in school history.