BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA — UAB snapped a difficult stretch with a commanding 2-0 victory over FIU on Wednesday night, with the Blazers' offense finally breaking through in the second half after a scoreless first 45 minutes. Alan Melendez and Lucas Nordin each found the back of the net to secure the win at Legion Field, giving the home side a much-needed result in conference play. The victory improved UAB to 5-7-2 overall, while FIU fell to 6-8-2 with the loss.
The match remained deadlocked through a tightly contested opening half, with both teams creating chances but neither able to convert. FIU's attack generated the more dangerous opportunities early, with Eduardo Mustre, Johan Helan, and David Boccuzzo all testing UAB's defense. The Panthers' best chance came in the 12th minute when Scott Neil's shot was blocked, leading to a corner kick. Despite FIU's territorial advantage, UAB's defense held firm, and the teams headed to the break scoreless.
UAB emerged with renewed purpose after halftime, and the Blazers' patience paid off in the 68th minute when Melendez capitalized on a set-piece opportunity to give the hosts a 1-0 lead. The goal came off a free kick situation, with Gael Zackrisson and Ole Jessen combining to set up the finish. That breakthrough seemed to settle UAB's nerves, and the Blazers controlled the tempo for the remainder of the match.
Nordin doubled the advantage just over a minute into the 81st minute, sealing the result with a composed finish. Zackrisson again played a key role in the build-up, providing the assist on a counterattack that caught FIU's backline stretched. The second goal effectively ended any hopes of a Panthers comeback, and UAB cruised to the final whistle without serious threat to their lead.
FIU never found its rhythm in the second half despite several attempts to break through. Joao Domingues, Nicolas Villalobos, and Enrique Mutsoli all had chances to test UAB's goalkeeper, but none could find the target. The Panthers managed three shots on goal for the match but couldn't overcome the Blazers' defensive organization once UAB took the lead.
Statistically, FIU actually dominated possession and shot attempts, firing 15 shots compared to UAB's eight. However, the Blazers' efficiency in front of goal made the difference—converting two of their three shots on target while limiting FIU to just three on goal. Both teams picked up two yellow cards apiece, with Owen Travis and Damian McGregor-Wickham cautioned for FIU, while Alan Melendez and Gael Zackrisson received yellows for UAB.
Melendez's goal proved to be the turning point, breaking open a match that had been frustratingly even through 67 minutes. The midfielder's composure in the box and Zackrisson's playmaking ability in the final third gave UAB the attacking thrust it had lacked in the first half. Nordin's finish put the match beyond doubt and capped an impressive second-half performance from the home side.
The victory marks UAB's second consecutive win after a difficult stretch earlier in the season. The Blazers had drawn 3-3 at Florida Atlantic just five days prior before bouncing back with authority. For FIU, the loss extends a frustrating run that includes just one win in their last three outings. The Panthers will look to regroup quickly as conference play intensifies down the stretch.
UAB travels to Temple on Sunday for another conference matchup, while FIU will have time to prepare for their next opponent. The Blazers' defensive solidity and clinical finishing in the second half should provide confidence heading into the final stretch of the season, while the Panthers will need to find more consistency in front of goal if they hope to make a late push toward the postseason.