LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky men's soccer team kicked off their 2025 season with a 2-1 victory over Western Michigan at the Bell Soccer Complex on Friday night.
The Wildcats struck first in the 21st minute when Joaquín Brizuela set up a teammate for the opening goal, giving UK an early advantage they would carry into halftime.
Kentucky appeared to put the game away in the 74th minute when Braxton Arpachinda doubled the lead with an unassisted strike, making it 2-0 with just 16 minutes remaining.
But Western Michigan had other ideas. The Broncos responded quickly, pulling one back less than two minutes later at the 75:48 mark to set up a frantic finish. Despite heavy pressure from the visitors in the closing stages, Kentucky's defense held firm to secure the three points.
"It's always good to start the season with a win at home," said UK's coaching staff after the match. "We showed good composure for most of the game, though we'll need to work on closing out matches better."
The victory gives Kentucky momentum heading into their next match against Bellarmine on Monday, August 25 at 7:30 PM, also at the Bell Soccer Complex.
Western Michigan, despite the spirited comeback attempt, will look to regroup quickly as they face a tough test against #12 University of Dayton on Saturday, August 24 at noon on their home turf.
Game Summary
Kentucky 2, Western Michigan 1
Goals:
- UK - 21' (assist: Brizuela)
- UK - Arpachinda 74'
- WMU - 76'
Next Games:
- UK: vs Bellarmine, Aug. 25, 7:30 PM
- WMU: vs #12 Dayton, Aug. 24, 12:00 PM
The Wildcats will look to continue their winning start when they host Bellarmine in their second match of the season on Monday night.