CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. - Virginia (6-1-2) secured a 3-2 victory over Milwaukee (2-4-5) in a back-and-forth contest on Wednesday evening at Klöckner Stadium. The match featured multiple lead changes before the Cavaliers ultimately prevailed in front of 2,347 spectators.
Jesus De Vicente was active early for Virginia, forcing two saves in the opening 15 minutes. The Panthers' Pavle Ivkovic received the game's first yellow card in the 11th minute for an unsporting challenge. Marco Dos Santos earned a caution in the 18th minute as the physical tone was established early.
The first half saw Virginia dominate possession and create numerous chances. Reese Miller and Nick Dang both had shots blocked in quick succession around the 4th minute. The Cavaliers maintained pressure through set pieces, earning five corner kicks before halftime. Milwaukee's defense, anchored by Daiki Kumakawa, absorbed significant pressure but managed to keep the match competitive.
The second half intensity increased immediately as Milwaukee's Nic Diana was shown yellow in the 47th minute. Virginia's attack continued through Albin Gashi and Zachary Ehrenpreis, who both tested Milwaukee's goalkeeper with shots on target. The Panthers made tactical adjustments at halftime, bringing on fresh legs with Miguel Rivera Cardona, Felix Huwiler, and Fernando Pirry all exiting.
Final statistics heavily favored Virginia, who outshot Milwaukee 29-8, including a 10-6 advantage in shots on goal. The Cavaliers dominated set pieces with 10 corner kicks to Milwaukee's single corner. The match's physical nature was reflected in the card count, with Milwaukee receiving four yellows to Virginia's two. Virginia's goalkeeper recorded 4 saves while Milwaukee's netminder made 7 crucial stops.
Jesus De Vicente led all players with multiple shot attempts, while Albin Gashi created consistent danger in the final third. Umberto Pelà received a yellow card in the 60th minute but remained influential in midfield. For Milwaukee, Bienvenu Djunga provided an offensive spark with several dangerous attempts on goal.
Virginia's tactical approach emphasized width and quick transitions, utilizing the speed of their wingers to stretch Milwaukee's defense. The Panthers countered with a disciplined defensive block, looking to spring quick counterattacks through Djunga and Angel Gongora. Both teams made strategic substitutions throughout the second half, with Virginia bringing off Luke Burns and Triton Beauvois in the 71st minute to inject fresh energy.
The victory extends Virginia's unbeaten streak and demonstrates their ability to close out tight matches. For Milwaukee, despite the loss, their competitive showing against a strong Virginia side suggests potential for improvement as they continue their season. The Panthers' defensive organization, particularly in the first half, provides a foundation to build upon.
Virginia's Samuel Oulouheu and Marco Dos Santos were instrumental in controlling the midfield battle, while Milwaukee's defensive unit, led by Pavle Ivkovic, showed resilience despite facing sustained pressure. The match ultimately turned on Virginia's superior shot creation and ability to maintain possession in key moments.
Looking ahead, Virginia will travel to face NC State on October 5th, while Milwaukee returns home to host Purdue Fort Wayne on October 4th. Both teams will look to build on the intensity and competitive spirit displayed in this encounter.