SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - San Diego State secured a crucial road victory, defeating Utah Valley 1-0 on Monday evening. Baptiste Boit's 69th-minute goal proved the difference in a tightly contested match that saw both teams create numerous opportunities.
The decisive moment came in the 69th minute when Baptiste Boit found the back of the net, capitalizing on an assist from Tristan Viviani. The goal marked a breakthrough in what had been a deadlocked contest, giving the Aztecs their seventh win of the season.
The first half saw both teams trading opportunities, with Utah Valley showing more attacking intent. Isaac Emojong tested the Aztecs' defense with multiple attempts, including a shot in the 26th minute that went wide left. San Diego State's Josh Lucas responded with two threatening attempts, including a close-range effort in the 31st minute that narrowly missed the target.
The second half intensity increased as both teams pushed for the breakthrough. Utah Valley's Alex Fritcher and Abdou Samb both had shots blocked in quick succession around the 33rd minute. The home side's pressure continued with Jose Luis Martin Montealegre forcing a save in the 58th minute, but it was San Diego State who ultimately found the crucial goal through Boit.
The statistical battle highlighted the competitive nature of the match. Utah Valley dominated the shot count 16-7, but San Diego State proved more efficient with their opportunities. The home side earned six corner kicks to San Diego State's two, while the disciplinary count saw Utah Valley receive two yellow cards (Isaac Emojong, 54th minute; Nil Grau, 69th minute) compared to San Diego State's one (Carson Ballagh, 30th minute).
Individual performances shaped the match outcome significantly. San Diego State's defensive unit, anchored by Cianole Nguepissi and Terence Okoeguale, withstood considerable pressure from Utah Valley's attack. The Wolverines' Isaac Emojong was particularly active, recording multiple shots before being substituted in the 84th minute. Juan Zepeda's midfield presence for the Aztecs helped maintain possession during crucial periods.
Tactically, Utah Valley's approach centered on sustained pressure and width, evidenced by their higher shot total and corner kick count. San Diego State's strategy of absorbing pressure and striking on the counter proved effective, particularly in the second half when spaces began to open up.
The victory improves San Diego State's record to 7-7-2, continuing their unbeaten run after a draw against San Jose State. For Utah Valley (8-3-2), the loss marks their second defeat in three matches, following a recent setback against California Baptist.
Looking ahead, San Diego State will aim to build on this momentum when they host California Baptist on November 1, while Utah Valley looks to rebound on the road against Utah Tech on October 31. The result demonstrates San Diego State's growing road confidence while serving as a reminder of the fine margins in collegiate soccer.