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Belmont University
Belmont University
VS
University of Illinois Chicago
University of Illinois Chicago
Match Report

UIC Edges Belmont 2-1 in Thrilling Conference Clash

By College Footy Soccer β€’ October 13, 2025 β€’ 3 min read β€’ 0 views
Belmont University
2-1
University of Illinois Chicago

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - Edouard Nys needed just 18 minutes to write the story of UIC's 2-1 victory over Belmont, slotting home his first goal before halftime and then dispatching his second with ruthless efficiency in the 83rd minute, before a crowd of 847 fans at E.S. Rose Park.

The early breakthrough set the tone for what became an intense tactical battle, with both teams marshaling their defensive resources to counter the opposition's attacking threats. Belmont's goalkeeper, Thomas Sorokin, made five saves to deny the Flames' attackers, while UIC's goalkeeper, Jordan Wynter, was called upon six times, including a spectacular stop in the 24th minute to preserve the 1-0 lead.

The first half was marked by UIC's clinical finishing, with Nzuhri Biggar doubling the lead in the 24th minute, assisted by Parker Forbes and Jimiyu Mark. The Flames' response was led by Jack Saltos, who created two scoring chances with his incisive passing, but UIC's defense held firm. Belmont's best opportunity came in the 31st minute when Michael Mancini's shot from distance forced Wynter into a comfortable save.

The second half saw Belmont push hard for a goal, with Saltos orchestrating several promising attacks. However, UIC's defense remained organized, with defenders like Sebastian Khoury and Darrell Turcios snuffing out Belmont's threats. Nys' second goal in the 83rd minute, assisted by Khoury and Turcios, effectively ended the contest, leaving Belmont to rue their missed chances.

The statistical ledger reveals a closely contested match, with UIC outshooting Belmont 9-12 overall but holding a marginal advantage in shots on target (8-6). Belmont controlled the corner-kick battle 4-2, but UIC's set-piece specialists capitalized on their opportunities. The Flames' efficiency in front of goal was evident, with two of their nine shots finding the back of the net.

The victory represents more than three points for UIC; it continues their winning streak and builds on their strong start to the conference season. With an 8-1-3 record, the Flames remain a force to be reckoned with, and they look ahead to their next challenge against Evansville. For Belmont, the loss extends their losing streak to one game, and they will need to regroup quickly to face NIU.

Looking ahead, the paths diverge sharply for both teams. UIC will look to maintain their momentum against Evansville, while Belmont will need to regroup and address their defensive vulnerabilities against NIU. The afternoon belonged to UICβ€”and specifically to Edouard Nys, whose two goals proved decisive.

Key Players:

Edouard Nys (UIC) – The match-winner showed ruthless efficiency, slotting home both of his goals with composure that settled his team's nerves.

Nzuhri Biggar (UIC) – Doubled UIC's lead with a well-taken goal, showcasing his clinical finishing ability.

Jack Saltos (Belmont) – Orchestrated several promising attacks with his incisive passing, creating two scoring chances for his teammates.

Thomas Sorokin (Belmont) – Made five crucial saves to keep Belmont in the game, including a spectacular stop in the 24th minute.

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