CINCINNATI, Ohio - Providence (3-5-1) defeated Xavier (3-3-2) by a score of 3-2 on Saturday afternoon in front of 311 fans at the Xavier Soccer Complex in a compelling Big East conference matchup.
The match saw multiple momentum shifts, with both teams trading attacking opportunities throughout. Sam Montalto and Bruno Rosa led Providence's offensive efforts in the first half, while Xavier's Cooper Forcellini and Shogo Haraikawa created several dangerous chances for the home side.
The first half featured intense midfield battles, with Providence's Diego Batista and Fernando Garcia Gil controlling the tempo. Xavier's best opportunity came in the 12th minute when Haraikawa's low shot tested the Providence goalkeeper. Angelo Ventrella responded for the Friars in the 6th minute with a well-struck attempt that narrowly missed the target. Charlie Dickerson received a yellow card in the 34th minute for an unsporting challenge, adding to the half's physical nature.
The second half saw increased intensity from both sides. Xavier's Ezra Widman tested Providence's defense with a shot in the 47th minute, while Ian Abbey responded for the Friars with a threatening attempt in the 73rd minute. The match's disciplinary count grew as Mitchel Varley (53') and Jabari De Coteau (65') received yellow cards for unsporting behavior. A late yellow card to Xavier's Aron Snaer Gudbjornsson in the 85th minute for dissent highlighted the match's competitive nature.
Final statistics reflected the even nature of the contest, with Xavier recording 12 shot attempts to Providence's 9. Both teams managed 5 shots on target, while corner kicks favored Xavier 2-1. Each goalkeeper recorded 3 saves in a display of defensive resilience.
Individual performances stood out on both sides. Providence's Sam Montalto created consistent pressure before being substituted in the 84th minute, while Xavier's Cooper Forcellini demonstrated his offensive prowess with multiple shot attempts, including two dangerous efforts in the 88th minute. Defensive standout Vasco Teixeira anchored Providence's backline until being substituted due to injury in the 72nd minute.
The tactical battle saw both teams employ strategic substitutions throughout the second half. Xavier made significant adjustments at halftime, with five changes including the removal of George Waites, Cooper Forcellini, Austin Nowak, Ely Detty, and Cristiano Fitzgerald. Providence countered with their own tactical shifts, notably withdrawing Caden Stafford, Pearse O'Brien, and Olumayowa Ajayi at the start of the second period.
This victory marks a significant turnaround for Providence, who entered the match on a mixed run of form following a loss to Seton Hall and a draw against Brown. For Xavier, the defeat ends their positive momentum after a draw with St. John's and victory over Northern Kentucky.
Looking ahead, Providence will host Villanova on October 3rd at 3:00 PM, while Xavier travels to face Marquette in an evening matchup on the same date. Both teams will look to build on the intense competitive spirit displayed in this encounter as they continue their Big East campaigns.