MIAMI, Florida - FIU defeated Temple 3-1 in a conference matchup on Friday evening at FIU Soccer Stadium. The Panthers (5-4-2) extended their home winning streak while Temple (1-7-2) suffered their third consecutive loss.
The match featured aggressive attacking play from both sides, with FIU's David Boccuzzo testing Temple's defense early with a blocked shot in the 7th minute. The Panthers maintained offensive pressure throughout the opening period, with Enrique Mutsoli forcing a save in the 30th minute with a low drive toward the right corner.
The first half saw FIU establish control through midfield dominance, led by Eduardo Mustre who drew multiple fouls while orchestrating the Panthers' attack. Temple's Elliot Rigbert managed a blocked shot attempt in the 24th minute, but the Owls struggled to maintain consistent possession. The half was marked by physical play, with Lukas Egarter receiving a yellow card in the 40th minute for an unsporting challenge.
The second half opened with both teams making tactical adjustments. FIU brought on fresh legs at halftime, with Johan Arevalo, Dominic Brady, and Diego Sanchez all entering the match. Temple responded with their own changes, introducing Harrison Dandridge and Adrian Panaite to strengthen their midfield presence. The Panthers continued their attacking momentum, with Johan Helan creating two dangerous chances in the 61st and 65th minutes.
Final statistics reflected FIU's overall control of the match. The Panthers outshot Temple 13-10, putting 7 shots on target compared to the Owls' 5. FIU also held the advantage in corner kicks (8-5), while both teams recorded 4 saves. The physical nature of the game was evident with both sides receiving two yellow cards each.
Several players stood out with notable performances. FIU's Enrique Mutsoli was particularly active in attack, recording multiple shot attempts before being substituted in the 74th minute. Temple's Paolo Kampula showed resilience in the attacking third, testing FIU's defense with a shot in the 89th minute. Eduardo Mustre controlled the midfield for FIU before receiving a yellow card in the 70th minute for unsporting behavior.
Tactically, FIU's approach centered on controlling possession through their midfield trio, with Nicolas Villalobos and David Boccuzzo providing width in attack. Temple attempted to counter through quick transitions, utilizing the pace of Rocco Haeufglockner and Charlie Votel, though struggled to create consistent scoring opportunities.
The result continues contrasting trajectories for both programs. FIU's victory builds momentum heading into their next match against Seton Hall, while Temple's struggles persist as they prepare to face Penn. The Panthers' balanced attack and defensive organization proved decisive, while the Owls showed moments of promise despite the defeat.
Both teams made extensive use of their benches, with FIU executing six substitutions and Temple making eight changes throughout the match. The fresh legs proved crucial in maintaining the match's high tempo, particularly evident in the final twenty minutes when both sides continued to create chances despite fatigue setting in.
Looking ahead, FIU will travel to face Seton Hall on October 7, while Temple returns home to host Penn on the same date. The Panthers will aim to build on this convincing performance, while the Owls seek to snap their losing streak against their cross-city rivals.