Springfield Standard

The Missouri State Bears men's soccer team was eliminated from the American Conference Men's Soccer Championship Tournament after a 1-0 loss to the Florida International University (FIU) Panthers on Friday night in Miami. This marks the second time this season that Missouri State has lost to FIU by the same score.

Both teams entered the quarterfinal match closely matched, with no goals scored in the first half. Each side managed only three shots during this period, reflecting strong defensive performances.

Missouri State's best opportunity in the first half came in the 25th minute when senior Fumiya Shiraishi directed a shot to the top right of the net, but FIU goalkeeper Nigel Van Haveren made the save.

In the second half, both teams increased their attacking efforts. The decisive moment occurred in the 65th minute when Alfonso Gilleard-Soriano of FIU scored from inside Missouri State’s box following a corner kick.

Missouri State attempted to equalize late in the game. Junior Diego Real had a shot saved by Van Haveren in the 78th minute, and freshman Harry Hogben saw his effort stopped in the 89th minute.

By the end of play, Missouri State had taken eight shots with three on target and earned nine corner kicks. FIU finished with seven shots, two on goal, and two corner kicks.

The defeat ends Missouri State's season with a record of six wins, six losses, and four draws. FIU advances to compete in the tournament semifinal.