Meet the Winners of the $50k Vanta World Classic Championship

South Korea's Championship Squad: Dylan Perez (Captain), Daniel Torrealba, Julio Arecho, Juan Rodriguez, Dayerson Graterol, Samuel Blanco and Gabriel Garcia.

Winning a soccer tournament is one thing. Winning $50,000 along the way is something else entirely.

South Korea emerged victorious from the inaugural Vanta World Classic in Dallas, overcoming a 48-team field inspired by the 2026 FIFA World Cup to claim one of the biggest prizes in amateur soccer.

Afterwards, we caught up with team captain Dylan Perez to find out how his side handled the pressure, what it felt like to lift the trophy, and what comes next after landing such an extraordinary payday.

1. What were your expectations going into the tournament? Did you genuinely believe you could win it?

I genuinely believed we were going to win. As soon as we stepped onto the field, I trusted my teammates and believed in all of our abilities. From that moment on, I felt we had what it took.

2. How did the final unfold from your perspective? Was there a defining moment?

It was a great game. It was high-energy, intense and a lot of fun to play. We were definitely feeling the effects of a long tournament, which is why it stayed so close, but we came together when it mattered most and found a way to win.

3. Did the $50,000 change the way you approached the final, or did it become just another soccer match once the whistle blew?

Honestly, the prize money changed the way we approached the whole tournament. Fifty thousand dollars is a lot of money, and we wanted to win it from day one.

The greatest feeling in the world looks exactly like this!

4. What went through your mind when the final whistle blew?

My first thoughts were to thank God and celebrate with my friends. We'd worked so hard throughout the tournament, and it was an incredible feeling to see everything pay off.

5. Have you decided what you'll do with your share of the prize money?

I'm planning to save most of it and hopefully use it one day to start my own company. Before that, though, I'll definitely be treating my girlfriend to a well-deserved dinner!

Congratulations once again to the champions, and thanks to Dylan (and Victoria at Vanta!) for taking the time to speak with us.