BINGHAMTON, N.Y. - New Hampshire (3-4-3) completed a thrilling comeback to defeat Binghamton (4-6) 3-2 in a pulsating NCAA soccer match on Saturday afternoon at the Bearcats Sports Complex. The Wildcats scored twice in the final 15 minutes to extend their winning streak to three games.
The match featured five goals with dramatic swings in momentum. Anthony Randazzo put Binghamton ahead in the 55th minute, converting an assist from D.T. Megliola. Gershom Matimano equalized for New Hampshire in the 76th minute off a feed from Terry Makedika, before Elias Khodri netted the equalizer in the 86th minute. The Wildcats completed their comeback with the winning goal in the 87th minute.
The first half saw New Hampshire control much of the possession, generating multiple scoring opportunities. Boubacar Simakan tested Binghamton goalkeeper Daniel Shannon with a shot in the 4th minute, while Max Voigt sent an effort high in the 8th minute. The Bearcats defended resolutely, with Luke Yates and Alex Balkey anchoring the backline.
The second half began with increased intensity from both sides. Binghamton's breakthrough came through Randazzo's precise finish, but New Hampshire responded with sustained pressure. Brady Lewis, who was later substituted for Felipe Diniz, forced a save from Shannon in the 51st minute. The match turned on its head in the final quarter-hour with Matimano and Khodri's clinical finishing.
Statistically, New Hampshire dominated the shot count, outshooting Binghamton 18-5, with five shots on target compared to the Bearcats' four. The Wildcats also held a significant advantage in corner kicks (7-2). Both teams received two yellow cards each, with D.T. Megliola and Rio Onwumere cautioned for Binghamton, while Elias Khodri received a yellow for New Hampshire.
Individual performances highlighted the competitive nature of the match. Khodri was particularly influential for New Hampshire, recording multiple shots and the crucial equalizer. Daniel Shannon made several important saves for Binghamton, while Anthony Randazzo showed his scoring touch with a well-taken goal. Terry Makedika's playmaking proved crucial with his assist on Matimano's goal.
Tactically, New Hampshire's persistence in maintaining possession and creating chances eventually wore down Binghamton's defensive organization. The Wildcats' substitutions, including the introduction of Reed Cash in the 81st minute, provided fresh energy for their late surge. Binghamton's counter-attacking strategy yielded opportunities but couldn't prevent the late collapse.
The result extends New Hampshire's winning streak to three matches, showing remarkable resilience in their comeback victory. For Binghamton, the loss marks their second straight defeat despite taking the lead, highlighting the need to improve game management in the closing stages.
Looking ahead, Binghamton will aim to rebound when they host Cornell on September 30, while New Hampshire carries their momentum into an October 4 home clash against UAlbany. The match officials were led by the center referee, with assistance from the linesmen (names not provided in data).