Creighton Edges Crosstown Rival Omaha in Five-Goal Thriller

OMAHA, NE - September 10, 2025 - Creighton survived a spirited challenge from crosstown rival Omaha to claim a hard-fought 3-2 victory in front of 2,456 passionate fans at Morrison Stadium. The match lived up to its billing as a local derby, featuring five goals, seven yellow cards, and non-stop action from start to finish. Lucas Cavalcante's 58th-minute strike proved to be the difference in a match that showcased the intensity and quality of Nebraska collegiate soccer.

Fast Start Sets the Tone

The match exploded into life early with Omaha taking a surprise lead in the 10th minute. The early goal stunned the Creighton faithful and set the stage for what would become an enthralling encounter. The Bluejays' response was swift and emphatic, as they pushed forward in search of an equalizer. The pressure told when Ryusei Shimonishi leveled the score in the 30th minute with a well-taken finish that sent the home crowd into raptures.

The remainder of the first half saw both teams create numerous opportunities, with the match played at a frenetic pace befitting a derby atmosphere. The physical nature of the contest was evident early, with the referee forced to brandish three yellow cards in the opening 45 minutes as both teams competed fiercely for every ball. The teams went into halftime level at 1-1, but the entertainment was far from over.

Second Half Drama

The second half continued where the first left off, with both teams committing players forward in search of a crucial second goal. Omaha regained the lead in the 55th minute, silencing the Creighton crowd and putting the Bluejays under immense pressure. However, Creighton's response was immediate and decisive. Lucas Cavalcante scored what would prove to be the winning goal just three minutes later in the 58th minute, completing a remarkable four-minute spell that saw two goals and completely changed the complexion of the match.

Creighton extended their lead in the 61st minute, making it 3-2 and putting themselves in control of the derby. The goal came from a swift counter-attack that exposed Omaha's defensive vulnerabilities as they pushed forward seeking an equalizer. The final half-hour saw Omaha throw everything forward in search of an equalizer, creating several dangerous opportunities but unable to find the finishing touch. The match became increasingly heated, with four more yellow cards issued in the second half as tensions boiled over in this fierce rivalry.

Statistical Battle

The statistics reflected the closely contested nature of the match. Both teams registered 26 shots throughout the 90 minutes, with Creighton managing 14 and Omaha 12. The shot accuracy was remarkably similar, with both teams testing the opposing goalkeepers on multiple occasions. Creighton's slight edge in possession (52% to 48%) reflected their ability to control crucial periods of the match, particularly after taking the lead. The corner count of 8-6 in Creighton's favor demonstrated their territorial advantage in key moments.

The physical nature of the derby was evident in the disciplinary record, with seven yellow cards issued throughout the match. Both teams made 27 substitutions combined, highlighting the intensity and physical demands of the contest. The high number of changes also reflected both coaches' attempts to influence the match tactically, with fresh legs making important contributions in the goals scored.

Key Performances

For Creighton, Lucas Cavalcante emerged as the match-winner with his crucial 58th-minute goal that swung momentum back in the Bluejays' favor. Ryusei Shimonishi's equalizer in the first half was equally important, settling Creighton's nerves after Omaha's early opener. The Creighton defense, despite conceding twice, showed resilience in the final stages to preserve their lead under intense pressure.

Omaha can take pride in their performance despite the defeat. Their early goal and second-half strike showed they could compete with their more illustrious neighbors. The Mavericks created numerous chances and were unfortunate not to come away with at least a point from the derby. Their pressing game caused Creighton problems throughout, and with better finishing, the result could have been different.

Derby Day Atmosphere

The atmosphere at Morrison Stadium was electric, with 2,456 fans creating a cauldron of noise that inspired both teams to produce an entertaining spectacle. The rivalry between these Omaha institutions was evident in every challenge, every goal celebration, and every controversial decision. The seven yellow cards reflected the competitive edge that defines this fixture, though credit must go to both teams for channeling their aggression within the rules of the game.

Looking Forward

This victory will give Creighton enormous confidence as they continue their season, having shown the character to come from behind twice and secure all three points in a pressure-filled derby environment. The Bluejays demonstrated the mental toughness and quality needed to compete at the highest level of collegiate soccer. For Omaha, despite the disappointment of defeat, there were enough positive signs to suggest they can build on this performance. The Mavericks showed they belong on the same field as their crosstown rivals and will look to use this experience as motivation for the challenges ahead.