NEW HAVEN, CONNECTICUT — Yale broke through late to defeat Brown 1-0 on Saturday, November 8, snapping a two-match losing streak before 247 spectators. Diego Zaffanella's goal in the 80th minute proved decisive in a tightly contested Ivy League matchup that remained scoreless through 79 minutes of play.
The Bulldogs (3-9-3) dominated possession and created consistent pressure throughout, outshooting the Bears 14-13 overall and 6-3 on target. Yale's superior shot volume reflected their control of the match, though Brown's defense held firm for most of the contest. The visitors' goalkeeper made five saves to keep the match level, frustrating Yale's attacking efforts until the breakthrough late in regulation.
Zaffanella's winning goal came at a critical moment when Yale's persistence finally paid dividends. The midfielder capitalized on a late opportunity to give the hosts their first victory in three outings. The goal capped a second-half performance where Yale intensified its attacking approach, generating six corner kicks compared to Brown's three.
Brown (6-7-2) entered the match riding a one-game winning streak but couldn't replicate that form in New Haven. The Bears created dangerous chances early, with Jamin Gogo Peters and Lorenzo Amaral testing Yale's defense, but lacked the finishing touch when opportunities arose. Brown's attack generated 13 shot attempts but managed only three on target, a conversion rate that ultimately cost them.
Discipline issues plagued both teams throughout. Brown received two yellow cards, including one to Stefano D'Agostini for dissent, while Yale accumulated five yellows. Most significantly, Brown's Iyke Dafe was sent off with a red card in the 52nd minute for unsporting conduct, forcing the Bears to navigate the final 38 minutes with a numerical disadvantage. Despite the man disadvantage, Brown mounted a spirited second-half effort and nearly equalized on multiple occasions.
Yale made seven substitutions across the match, rotating personnel to maintain pressure. Brown countered with six changes of their own, including a wholesale four-player substitution at the 38-minute mark. Both teams' tactical adjustments reflected the competitive nature of the contest, though Yale's depth ultimately proved advantageous in the closing stages.
The Bulldogs' defensive solidity complemented their attacking dominance. Yale's goalkeeper recorded three saves while limiting Brown's most dangerous opportunities.