TIGERS ADVANCE TO SECOND ROUND WITH 4-0 WIN OVER LA SIERRA

MISHAWAKA, Ind. — Olivet Nazarene University secured a commanding 4-0 victory over La Sierra University in the first round of the NAIA men's soccer tournament on Thursday at Morey Field, scoring three second-half goals and maintaining a shutout with four saves from Cedric Kunzli. This was the second NAIA tournament win in program history and the first since 2012. 

After fending off a couple of early chances from La Sierra, Olivet struck first with a goal from Adrian Kang Hagman in the 31st minute, assisted by Atjon Thaqi. The Tigers dominated the attack for the remainder of the first half, with multiple attempts on goal as Hagman and Thaqi consistently challenged La Sierra's defense. Despite several saves by La Sierra's goalkeeper, Olivet maintained their advantage and the half ended with the Tigers leading 1-0.

Olivet asserted control early in the second half with a goal by Nathan Schmidli at 49', assisted by Niels Noordhoek, extending their lead to 2-0. The advantage increased when Hagman scored at 51', with an assist from Noa Norton. Kingsley Kanu further solidified the lead with a goal at 68', assisted by Schmidli, making it 4-0. La Sierra wasn't able to garner much of an attack throughout the second half, and the few chances they had were stifled by Kunzli. The game concluded with a decisive 4-0 victory for the Tigers.

Hagman led the team with two goals, including the game-winner, from eight total shots, seven of which were on target. Schmidli contributed one goal and one assist. Kunzli kept a clean sheet, recording four saves over the full 90 minutes. Kanu added to the scoreline with a goal from his single shot on target.

ONU improves their overall record to 19-2-1, while La Sierra concludes their season at 14-4-1.

The Tigers advance to the second round of the national tournament to face Bethel (Ind.) on Saturday, Nov. 22 at 1 p.m. CST. 

--ONU--