WATERTOWN — No. 1 Boston International defeated No. 4 Brighton, 3–2, in a hard-fought semifinal of the MIAA Division 5 boys soccer state tournament on Monday evening.

The Lions (20-1-12) entered the match coming off a dominant 6–1 win over Pioneer Charter of Science in the quarterfinals. Brighton (11-7-4) advanced after a 3–2 victory over Rockport.

Brighton opened the scoring in the 22nd minute when Haciel Armando Zelaya Mejia rose for a header off a corner kick. Despite falling behind, Boston International controlled possession early, firing repeated shots at Brighton goalkeeper Reece Meyer, who delivered several spectacular saves in the opening 20 minutes to keep the Bengals in front.

Boston International found its equalizer just two minutes into the second half. Silverto Bracero conn

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