Maryland Stuns #25 Georgetown with Late Winner in Capital Showdown Sadam Masereka's 65th-minute strike lifts Terrapins to 1-0 victory over ranked Hoyas in season opener
WASHINGTON, DC – In a thrilling season opener that lived up to the hype of a regional rivalry, the University of Maryland pulled off a stunning 1-0 upset over 25th-ranked Georgetown University, with Sadam Masereka's second-half winner proving the difference in a tightly contested affair at the nation's capital.
The match remained scoreless through a cagey first half that saw both teams probe for weaknesses without finding the breakthrough. Georgetown, playing at home and carrying the burden of expectations as a ranked side, controlled much of the early possession but struggled to convert their territorial advantage into clear-cut chances.
The Hoyas' best opportunities came through forward Mitchell Baker, who registered four shots in his 68-minute appearance, including a well-struck effort in the 12th minute that forced a smart save from Maryland goalkeeper Laurin Mack. Zach Zengue nearly broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute when his shot cannoned off the woodwork, leaving Georgetown to rue what would prove a costly miss.
Maryland's tactical approach centered on defensive solidity and quick transitions, with the Terrapins content to absorb pressure and strike on the counter. The strategy nearly paid dividends in the 37th minute when Masereka tested Georgetown keeper Tenzing Manske, serving as a preview of what was to come.
The decisive moment arrived in the 65th minute following a Maryland corner kick. In a beautifully orchestrated move, Stephane Njike and Albi Ndrenika combined to set up Masereka, who made no mistake with his finish to send the traveling Maryland contingent into raptures. The goal capped off an impressive individual performance from Masereka, who led all players with four shots while consistently troubling the Georgetown defense.
Georgetown's response was immediate and sustained, with head coach Brian Wiese making tactical adjustments to chase an equalizer. The Hoyas peppered the Maryland goal with desperate attempts, outshooting their opponents 18-15 overall and registering six shots on target to Maryland's five. Mateo Ponce Ocampo, introduced as a substitute, provided fresh legs and creativity, forcing two saves from Mack in the final 35 minutes.
The match's physical nature was evident in the foul count, with Georgetown committing ten infractions to Maryland's eight. Both teams picked up cautions, with Maryland's Jace Clark and Georgetown's Aidan Godinho and Jack Heaps finding their way into the referee's book as tensions rose in the closing stages.
Defensively, Maryland's backline anchored by Luca Costabile and Tristen Rose, who both played the full 90 minutes, proved resolute when it mattered most. The Terrapins' defensive discipline forced Georgetown into speculative efforts, with many of the Hoyas' 18 shots failing to truly test Mack between the posts.
The victory represents a significant statement from Maryland in what promises to be a competitive season. Defeating a ranked opponent away from home, particularly one with Georgetown's pedigree, will provide tremendous confidence as the Terrapins build toward conference play.
For Georgetown, the defeat serves as an early wake-up call. Despite dominating possession and creating the better chances statistically, the Hoyas' inability to convert opportunities proved costly. The loss also highlights the razor-thin margins at the highest level of college soccer, where a single moment of brilliance can determine the outcome.
Key Players
- Sadam Masereka (Maryland) - Scored the match-winner and led all players with four shots, consistently threatening the Georgetown defense throughout his 70-minute performance
- Laurin Mack (Maryland) - Made six crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet, including several key stops in the final stages as Georgetown pushed for an equalizer
- Mitchell Baker (Georgetown) - Georgetown's most dangerous attacking threat with four shots and two on target, came closest to breaking the deadlock for the Hoyas