PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA — Princeton defeated Penn 1-0 on Saturday, extending its winning streak to three matches with a dominant defensive performance before 513 spectators at Penn's home stadium. Bardia Hormozi scored the match's only goal in the sixth minute, assisted by Daniel Ittycheria and Roka Tsunehara, giving the visiting Tigers an early advantage they never relinquished.
The undefeated Tigers (13-1-2) controlled the opening moments and capitalized immediately. Hormozi's early strike set the tone for a Princeton side that has now won three consecutive contests. The goal came during a period of sustained pressure from the visitors, who dominated possession in the opening stages and forced Penn into a reactive defensive posture.
Penn (8-4-4) struggled to generate consistent attacking opportunities throughout the first half despite registering several shot attempts. Erickson Sakalosky and Romeo Dahlen each had blocked shots early, but the Quakers could not find the back of the net. Princeton's defense, anchored by disciplined positioning, limited Penn's chances and forced the home side into difficult angles.
The first half saw both teams make multiple substitutions at the 28-minute mark and again at halftime, with Princeton rotating five players and Penn cycling through four. These adjustments failed to shift momentum in Penn's favor. The Quakers' corner kick advantage (10 to Princeton's 5) did not translate into scoring opportunities, as the Tigers' backline remained resolute.
Princeton maintained its defensive structure throughout the second half, absorbing Penn's pressure without surrendering clear-cut chances. Malachi Neal received a yellow card in the 50th minute for unsporting conduct, while George Herbert earned a caution in the 77th minute for the same infraction. Roka Tsunehara drew a yellow for Princeton in the first half.
Shot statistics reflected Princeton's efficiency: the Tigers generated seven shots on goal compared to Penn's six, despite the Quakers attempting 14 total shots to Princeton's 13. Both teams recorded six saves, indicating a tightly contested match where neither goalkeeper was overwhelmed. Princeton's ability to convert limited opportunities proved decisive.
Daniel Ittycheria and Bardia Hormozi were instrumental in Princeton's victory, combining for the decisive goal while maintaining defensive responsibilities. Ittycheria's assist showcased the Tigers' attacking coordination, while Hormozi's clinical finishing demonstrated the precision required at the Division I level.