UNCG and USF Battle to 1-1 Draw in Season-Opening Thriller
Spartans' Sami Lachekar finds the net as Bulls held scoreless in Tampa stalemate
TAMPA, FL – The University of North Carolina at Greensboro opened their 2025 campaign with a hard-earned 1-1 draw against South Florida at Home Stadium on Thursday evening, as both teams showed early-season rust in what proved to be an entertaining but ultimately frustrating night for the home Bulls.
The Spartans struck first through defender Sami Lachekar, whose lone shot of the match found the back of the net to give UNCG the early advantage. The goal highlighted what would become the story of the evening – clinical finishing from the visitors contrasted against wasteful opportunities from the hosts.
UNCG's tactical approach centered around midfielder Daniel Longo, who orchestrated play from the center of the park throughout his full 90-minute performance. Longo registered two shots, both on target, consistently finding pockets of space between USF's midfield and defensive lines. His partnership with Issah Haruna, who contributed two shots including one on goal before being substituted in the 71st minute, gave the Spartans the creative edge in the middle third.
The Bulls struggled to find their rhythm in the attacking third despite enjoying territorial advantages. Forward Fabio Bozesan led USF's offensive efforts with three shots, though only one troubled UNCG goalkeeper Seth Wilson. The Brazilian's movement in the box created several promising positions, but the final product consistently eluded Bob Butehorn's side.
USF's equalizer came through sustained pressure, though the exact scorer remains unclear from the match statistics. The goal represented a breakthrough for a Bulls attack that managed just six total shots compared to UNCG's nine, highlighting the visitors' superior efficiency in the final third.
The match featured notable squad rotation from both sides, with UNCG making multiple substitutions to manage the early-season workload. Forward Enzo Dovlo was withdrawn after 55 minutes, making way for fresh legs as coach Chris Rich looked to maintain his team's intensity. Similarly, midfielder Julien Le bourdoulous was replaced after 65 minutes, with Sigurd Saeveraas providing energy in the closing stages.
USF's tactical adjustments included the introduction of several substitutes, with Cade Erickson picking up the Bulls' only yellow card of the evening during his 57-minute appearance. The physical nature of the contest was evident, though both teams showed admirable discipline with just two cautions issued across the 90 minutes.
Defensively, both teams showed early-season organization. UNCG's back line, anchored by the ever-present Kimito Fritz and Teva Lossec who both played the full match, successfully limited USF's clear-cut chances. The Spartans' defensive structure forced the Bulls into speculative efforts, with several shots failing to test Wilson between the posts.
The draw leaves both programs with mixed emotions as they begin their respective campaigns. For UNCG, the result represents a positive start against a traditionally strong USF program, demonstrating the tactical improvements under Rich's guidance. The Spartans' ability to create quality chances while maintaining defensive solidity suggests promising developments ahead.
USF, meanwhile, will rue missed opportunities in front of their home supporters. The Bulls' inability to convert territorial dominance into clear scoring chances highlighted areas requiring immediate attention as conference play approaches.
Both teams now turn their attention to quick turnarounds, with crucial matches looming in the coming days that will provide clearer indicators of their 2025 prospects.
Key Players
- Sami Lachekar (UNCG) - Scored the opening goal and provided defensive stability throughout his 90-minute performance - Daniel Longo (UNCG) - Controlled midfield play with two shots on target and consistent creative influence - Fabio Bozesan (USF) - Led Bulls attack with three shots and dangerous movement in the penalty area