Women’s Soccer Wraps Up First Conference USA Match with a Win
NEWARK, Del. – The FIU women’s soccer team delivered a strong performance against Delaware, securing a 2-1 victory in their first Conference USA match of the season. This win marked the Blue Hens’ (7-1-2, 0-1 CUSA) initial loss of the year.
Match Overview
The Panthers (4-2-3, 1-0 CUSA) managed to make the most of their opportunities, converting three of their five shots into scoring chances, yielding an impressive 60% shot-on-goal percentage.
Key Players and Goals
FIU opened the scoring in the 17th minute. Senior Chinatsu Kaio assisted graduate student Jayden Boelter, who headed the ball past the Blue Hens’ goalkeeper, marking Boelter’s second goal in consecutive matches. Kaio’s assist was her first of the season and one of two she achieved that game.
As the first half concluded, Kaio provided another crucial assist, this time setting up junior Montelene Dymond, who scored in the 43rd minute to push the lead to 2-0. This goal represented Dymond’s sixth of the season, tying her for second place in Conference USA.
Comeback Efforts
Despite trailing, Delaware responded shortly after halftime, scoring in the 54th minute to reduce FIU’s lead to 2-1. The Blue Hens aggressively sought to level the match, registering 17 total shots, including five on target. However, the Panther defense and goalkeeper Valery Restrepo held strong, as she recorded four saves—her fifth match this season with four or more saves.
Season Insights
This victory is notable as it is the second time this season that FIU has handed an opponent its first defeat, having previously triumphed over an unbeaten UCF team, 2-1.
Looking Ahead
The Panthers will continue their conference campaign with an upcoming match against Kennesaw State on Thursday, September 25, at 7 p.m.
Sponsorship
The 2024 FIU men’s and women’s soccer season is sponsored by Baptist Health, the designated sports medicine provider for FIU Athletics.
Follow the Panthers
Fans can keep up with the latest updates by following FIU Women’s Soccer on Instagram (@FIWSoccer), Twitter (@FIUWomensSoccer), and Facebook (Facebook.com/FIUWomensSoccer). For general athletic news, follow @FIUSports on Facebook and @FIUAthletics on Twitter and Instagram.
