Springfield Standard

The Missouri State men's soccer team, ranked No. 23 nationally, defeated Penn State 3-1 in an away match on Monday afternoon. Senior Diego Real scored his first goal for the Bears to tie the game in the first half, while Fumiya Shiraishi added two goals in the second half to secure the win.

Penn State took an early lead with a goal in the seventh minute. Missouri State responded in the 38th minute when Real scored with assists from Fionn Mooney and Bruno Cellerino.

"It felt amazing to score my first goal for the Bears, especially after a long wait as I made the move from NAIA to NCAA Division 1," stated Real after the match. "I am definitely very glad to have been able to score today, and most importantly happy to contribute in a great team win today."

In the second half, Shiraishi put Missouri State ahead with a long-range shot in the 52nd minute, assisted by Adrián Esteban. Near the end of regulation, Will Lowry sent a ball downfield that Daniele Aracri crossed for Shiraishi to finish with a tap-in.

"It feels amazing to win the big game," Shiraishi said. "And I'm so happy that my scores contributed to the win for the Bears. I want to keep working hard for this team."

Coach Michael Seabolt praised his players following their performance.

"We talked before the game about how we represent Missouri State. We represent the city of Springfield, and we represent the state of Missouri, and the guys did just that this afternoon. Great team effort, Fumi with two goals and Diego with his first goal for the Bears, and then an amazing performance from our captain, Alex Matthews, and the whole team."

"It's just a great team win, and we're proud to bring three points back to Springfield, and thank you to Penn State for playing the series. They were great hosts, and we look forward to hosting them in Springfield in 2026, offering the same wonderful hospitality when they come to town," Coach Seabolt further commented.

Missouri State will play its next home match against Central Arkansas at Betty & Bobby Allison South Stadium on Sunday, Sept. 7 at 6:00 p.m., with free admission available for all home games this season.