EVANSVILLE, Ind. — #6 Western Michigan pulled off a stunning upset Saturday, defeating top-ranked Evansville 1-0 before 1,810 spectators. Mathieu Beuvain's 72nd-minute goal proved decisive as the Broncos secured a signature road victory against the nation's top-ranked team.
Beuvain's strike, assisted by Piero Sabroso, came during a tightly contested second half that saw Evansville dominate possession but struggle to convert opportunities. The Aces controlled much of the match, particularly in the opening 45 minutes, but Western Michigan's defensive organization and goalkeeper efficiency kept the hosts at bay until the decisive moment.
Evansville generated significantly more chances throughout the contest, recording 17 shot attempts compared to Western Michigan's six. The Aces also earned nine corner kicks to the Broncos' four, demonstrating their territorial advantage. However, Western Michigan's goalkeeper made seven saves to preserve the lead, while Evansville's keeper recorded only two stops.
The first half remained scoreless despite Evansville's pressure. Martin Wurschmidt and Devin Shepherd both tested Western Michigan's defense with efforts that went wide, while Tancredi Fadda's blocked shot in the 59th minute represented another close call for the hosts. Western Michigan created limited opportunities but remained compact defensively, frustrating Evansville's attacking rhythm.
Western Michigan made crucial adjustments at halftime, bringing in fresh legs across the lineup. The Broncos emerged with renewed intensity and capitalized on their opportunity when Beuvain found space to finish clinically in the 72nd minute. The goal shifted momentum decisively, forcing Evansville into a more aggressive posture that left them vulnerable on the counter.
Evansville pressed for an equalizer in the final stages, with Pablo Calvete, Nacho Garcia, and Martin Wurschmidt all testing Western Michigan's defense in the closing minutes. Devin Shepherd's multiple attempts in the 84th and 85th minutes came closest to finding the net, but Western Michigan's backline held firm. Braxton Arpachinda received a red card for fighting in the 89th minute, but the Broncos successfully defended their advantage through stoppage time.
The upset demonstrated Western Michigan's ability to compete at the highest level despite being seeded sixth. The Broncos' defensive discipline and clinical finishing in transition proved the difference against a Evansville team that created numerous chances but lacked the finishing touch when it mattered most.
Western Michigan's goalkeeper was the standout performer, making crucial saves throughout the match to keep the Aces off the scoreboard. His seven-save performance proved instrumental in securing the road victory against the nation's top-ranked program.