Leyden’s Alfredo Recendez, Christian Rubio have each others’ backs

Leyden juniors Alfredo Recendez and Christian Rubio have played soccer with or against each other since they were both 6 years old.

Some things never change.

“It seemed like we were always on opposing teams when we were little,” Rubio said. “It would be fun facing each other. We never could take each other seriously and we would just goof around. There would come a point where the match got intense and we’d go hard, but in the end, we were always friends afterwards. He’s still a funny guy who likes to goof around. He’s always telling jokes and getting everyone to laugh.”

Recendez and Rubio are both two-year varsity starters from Northlake.

Recendez is the goalkeeper, while Rubio is a center back.

“We have a really good bond with each other in and out of school,” Recendez said. “I think our friendship helps us on the field because we know each other so well.”

The two played a key role in Leyden, which is the No. 5 seed in the Class 3A Niles North Sectional, beating No. 4 Glenbrook South 1-0 Friday in the Glenbrook South Regional final.

It was the first regional championship for the Eagles since 2011.

Cesar Franco headed in a cross from Christian Sosnowski midway through the second half for the game-winner.

Leyden (12-6-4) played top-seeded Evanston in the sectional semifinal Tuesday and lost in overtime, 2-1.

Recendez had five saves in the regional final, including a clutch one on a header from close range, to earn his eighth shutout of the season.

“Every single game he has made some big saves,” Leyden coach Mark Valintis said. “For a team that has a really good defense, having a very good goalkeeper, gives everyone more confidence to be aggressive. They know if they make a mistake, Alfredo is there. Knowing he’s back there really helps us play a lot looser and relaxed. It’s going to take a good shot to get it by him.”

Recendez started every game last season as a sophomore.

He made big strides this season, earning All-West Suburban Gold honors.

“He played almost every minute last year,” Valintis said. “He had all the skill and ability; it just took a while to get used to playing at the varsity level. After seven or eight games he really settled in nicely.

“He has developed more into a vocal leader. He was relatively quiet last year with a lot of seniors, but this year, he’s not afraid to speak up. Besides getting stronger by working in the weight room, he spent a lot of time working on his footwork and hands. He’s also developing the part of the game where he can play with his feet. He’s able to come off the line to snatch the ball at the top of the box and clear it out.”

Rubio is impressed by how his friend has emerged into a top-notch goalkeeper.

“Alfredo is amazing,” Rubio said. “We feel confident with him back there. He gives the rest of our defense and team a lot more confidence. He’s trained a lot and is dedicated. He never gives up on anything.”

Recendez is quick to credit his teammates for making his job easier and can’t imagine playing a different position.

“I love the adrenaline you get when you make a big save and having everyone congratulate you,” Recendez said. “I love diving for the ball and being in the air; and being the only one who can handle the ball with their hands.”