BLACKSBURG, Va. – Colin Beutel's 40th-minute goal proved to be the difference as Virginia Tech opened their 2025 season with a 1-0 victory over Ohio State at Thompson Field on Thursday night.
The Hokies (1-0) controlled the tempo in front of 1,532 fans, with Beutel breaking the deadlock just before halftime. The midfielder found the back of the net with assistance from Alvaro Ruiz-Mateos Figueroa, capitalizing on a well-worked attacking move to give Virginia Tech the advantage heading into the break.
Despite Ohio State (0-1) matching Virginia Tech with six shots apiece, the Buckeyes struggled to find their finishing touch. Aaron Hurge and Luciano Pechota led the offensive effort for Ohio State, each testing Hokies goalkeeper Sam Joseph, who finished with three crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet.
The match featured its share of physical play, with six yellow cards issued – three to each side. The most notable incident occurred at the 31-minute mark when both teams saw multiple players cautioned following a heated exchange, with Ohio State's Aaron Hurge and Donovan Williams, along with Virginia Tech's Alex Perez, all receiving yellows.
Ohio State goalkeeper Max Trejo made just one save on the night, as Virginia Tech managed only two shots on target despite their possession advantage. The Buckeyes pushed for an equalizer in the second half, earning two corner kicks, but couldn't break down a resolute Virginia Tech defense anchored by Amir Ariely and Noe Uwimana, who both played the full 90 minutes.
The Hokies effectively managed the game after taking the lead, with head coach using all five substitutions to maintain freshness and see out the victory. The match, broadcast on ACC Network, marked a successful start to Virginia Tech's campaign.
Looking Ahead
Virginia Tech will return to Thompson Field on Saturday, August 24 at 3:00 PM EDT to host Canisius, looking to extend their winning start to the season. The Hokies will aim to build on their solid defensive performance and clinical finishing from this opener.
Ohio State, meanwhile, will look to bounce back when they host Oakland on August 28 at 7 p.m. in their home opener as part of the 2025 Wolstein Classic at Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium.
Match Facts:
- Attendance: 1,532
- Goals: Colin Beutel (VT) 40'
- Yellow Cards: 6 total (3 each team)
- Shots: 6-6
- Saves: Joseph (VT) 3, Trejo (OSU) 1
- Corners: Ohio State 4, Virginia Tech 5