COLORADO SPRINGS, Colorado - San Diego State (5-6) outlasted Air Force (1-7-2) in a thrilling 3-2 victory on Saturday afternoon at Cadet Soccer Stadium. The win extended the Aztecs' winning streak to two games while dealing the Falcons their third consecutive defeat.
Josh Lucas tested the Air Force defense early with a blocked shot in the 2nd minute, setting the tone for an action-packed first half. The teams traded opportunities before Sean Odle threatened for Air Force in the 14th minute with a low drive toward the left corner. Christian Engmann responded for the Aztecs in the 17th minute, sending his effort high over the crossbar.
The first half featured intense midfield battles with both teams creating chances. Air Force's Marcos Goni fired two shots off target in the 11th and 42nd minutes, while Baptiste Boit came close for San Diego State in the 22nd minute. The defensive units held firm, with goalkeepers Eddy Vargas and Brody Smith both being called into action multiple times.
The second half saw increased intensity from both sides. Juan Zepeda became increasingly influential for the Aztecs, forcing a save from Smith in the 76th minute. Air Force's Maximilian Perez responded with several dangerous attempts, including a shot that struck the woodwork in the 81st minute. The match's disciplinary count increased as tensions rose, with Terence Okoeguale (65th minute) and Josh Lucas (84th minute) receiving yellow cards for San Diego State, while Air Force's Sean Odle (67th minute) and Andrei Bulankou (82nd minute) were also cautioned.
The statistical battle highlighted the competitive nature of the match. Air Force recorded 20 shot attempts to San Diego State's 10, with the Falcons putting 9 on target compared to the Aztecs' 5. The corner kick count favored San Diego State 6-5, while Eddy Vargas made 7 crucial saves for the Aztecs compared to Brody Smith's 2 stops for Air Force.
Several players delivered standout performances. Maximilian Perez was particularly dangerous for Air Force, creating multiple scoring opportunities and forcing several saves. Josh Lucas proved instrumental for San Diego State with three shot attempts, while Terence Okoeguale provided crucial defensive coverage before being substituted in the 68th minute.
The tactical approach from both teams emphasized quick transitions and wing play. San Diego State effectively utilized their speed on the counter-attack, while Air Force dominated possession and created chances through sustained pressure. The introduction of substitutes Whit Schatz and Lorenzo Hernandez in the second half helped the Aztecs maintain their defensive shape against mounting Falcon pressure.
The victory marks a significant momentum boost for San Diego State, who have now won consecutive matches after a challenging start to the season. For Air Force, despite creating numerous chances, their inability to convert opportunities extended their winless streak to three matches.
The match reached its dramatic peak in the closing minutes when Air Force's Andrei Bulankou received a red card in the 89th minute, effectively ending the Falcons' hopes of a late equalizer. Both teams showed tremendous fighting spirit throughout the contest, with the Aztecs' clinical finishing ultimately proving decisive.
Looking ahead, San Diego State will aim to extend their winning streak when they host Grand Canyon on October 9th, while Air Force travels to face Utah Valley on the same date, seeking to end their current slide.