Penn State and Syracuse Battle to 1-1 Draw in Season Opener
Nittany Lions' Bell and Orange's Da Costa Exchange Goals in Evenly-Matched Contest
SYRACUSE, NY – Pennsylvania State University and Syracuse University opened their 2025 campaigns with an entertaining 1-1 draw at Home Stadium on Thursday evening, as both programs kicked off what promises to be competitive seasons in Division I men's soccer.
The match showcased two well-organized sides feeling each other out in their season opener, with Penn State's attacking midfielder Freddie Bell and Syracuse's Kelvin Da Costa providing the offensive highlights in a tactically sound encounter.
Bell proved to be the catalyst for the Nittany Lions' attack, registering three shots with two on target while finding the back of the net for what appeared to be the game-winner. The dynamic midfielder's goal came courtesy of an assist from Ben Liscum, as Penn State demonstrated the kind of combination play that could serve them well throughout the campaign.
However, Syracuse responded with characteristic resilience on home soil. Da Costa, operating from his midfield position, leveled the match with a well-taken finish that came via an assist from Nathan Scott. The goal capped off a solid individual performance from Da Costa, who managed two shots with one on target while helping anchor the Orange's midfield.
The tactical battle was evident in the shot statistics, with Penn State edging the count 13-8 but Syracuse keeping pace with quality chances. Penn State forward Kai Phillip was particularly active in the final third, unleashing four shots and providing an assist while constantly threatening the Syracuse backline throughout his 90-minute shift.
Syracuse's defensive structure, marshaled by Tim Brdaric and Gavin Wigg who both played the full 90 minutes, helped limit Penn State's clear-cut opportunities despite the visitors' numerical advantage in attempts. The Orange's compact shape forced Penn State to work for their chances, with several Nittany Lions players picking up yellow cards as frustration mounted.
Penn State's Davy Leavey was particularly influential before his 66th-minute substitution, contributing two shots and helping drive the tempo from midfield alongside the impressive Bell. The Nittany Lions' tactical flexibility was on display as head coach made strategic adjustments, bringing on fresh legs with Conor Clair, Van Danielson, and Ben Nash to maintain pressure in the final third of the match.
Syracuse goalkeeper Tomas Hut and Penn State's Jonathan Evans both completed solid 90-minute performances between the posts, with neither keeper being severely tested despite the combined 21 shots in the match. The defensive solidity from both sides suggested that goals would be at a premium throughout the season.
The draw leaves both programs with identical 0-0-1 records to start the campaign, setting up intriguing paths forward as conference play approaches. Penn State will look to build on their attacking output of 13 shots, while Syracuse can take confidence from their ability to respond after falling behind and their defensive organization at home.
Both teams now face quick turnarounds with challenging schedules ahead. Syracuse will hit the road for consecutive matches against Princeton and Yale, testing their early-season form away from home. Meanwhile, Penn State returns home to face James Madison before hosting Missouri State, providing an opportunity to establish early momentum in familiar surroundings.
The season opener provided an encouraging glimpse of two programs ready to compete at the highest level, with both the Nittany Lions and Orange demonstrating the tactical discipline and individual quality necessary for successful campaigns in Division I soccer.
Key Players
- Freddie Bell (Penn State) - Scored the opening goal and led all players with 3 shots, 2 on target, while playing the full 90 minutes - Kelvin Da Costa (Syracuse) - Netted the equalizer for the Orange with 2 shots, 1 on target, anchoring the midfield for 90 minutes - Kai Phillip (Penn State) - Most active attacker with 4 shots and 1 assist, constantly threatening throughout his complete performance