MORGANTOWN, WEST VIRGINIA - Pablo Pozos needed just 35 minutes and 20 seconds to write the story of West Virginia's victory, scoring twice and propelling the Mountaineers to a 2-0 win over American before 1,847 fans at Dlesk Stadium, extending their unbeaten streak to four games.
The early breakthrough set the tone for what became a defensive chess match, with West Virginia marshaling their defense to protect their lead. The Mountaineers' goalkeeper made two crucial saves, while American's goalkeeper was tested six times, unable to prevent the home side from doubling their advantage just three minutes later when Pozos scored his second goal, assisted by Constantinos Christou.
The first half was characterized by West Virginia's tactical dominance, with Felix Ewald and Marcus Caldeira setting up Pozos' opener with a perfectly weighted through ball that dissected American's defense. The visitors struggled to create scoring opportunities, managing only two shot attempts on target across the entire match. American's midfield was stifled by West Virginia's organized defense, which absorbed the pressure and denied the visitors any clear chances.
As the second half unfolded, American attempted to orchestrate a comeback, but their efforts were thwarted by West Virginia's resolute defense. The Mountaineers continued to control the game, outshooting American 12-6 overall and holding a commanding 6-2 advantage in shots on target. Despite American's best efforts, they couldn't produce a single shot on target, epitomizing their afternoon struggles.
The statistical ledger reveals a comprehensive West Virginia victory, with the Mountaineers outshooting American 12-6 overall and earning nine corner kicks to three. The home side's defensive solidity was evident in their ability to limit American to just six shot attempts, with only two of those being on target. West Virginia's goalkeeper made two saves, while American's goalkeeper was tested six times, making four saves to preserve their shutout bid until Pozos' second goal.
The victory represents more than three points for West Virginia; it cements their position as a top contender in the conference, with a 9-1-2 record and a 4-0 conference record. Their four-game winning streak continues, and they look to maintain their momentum against Georgia St. next. For American, the loss extends their losing streak to one game, leaving them with a 5-7-1 overall record and a 4-1 conference record. They will look to regroup against Boston U. in their next match.
Looking ahead, the paths diverge sharply for these two teams. West Virginia will face Georgia St., who are looking to bounce back from their last loss, while American will host Boston U., seeking to end their losing streak. The Mountaineers will be confident in their ability to continue their winning ways, having shown their strength against a competitive American side.
The afternoon belonged to West Virginia—and specifically to Pablo Pozos, whose clinical finishing and intelligent movement were the difference-makers. As the Mountaineers look to their next challenge, they will be buoyed by their defensive solidity and attacking prowess, having demonstrated their ability to win games through both ends of the pitch.
Key Players:
Pablo Pozos (West Virginia) – The match-winner showed clinical finishing, scoring twice and demonstrating his predatory instincts in front of goal.
Felix Ewald (West Virginia) – Orchestrated West Virginia's attack with intelligent positioning and distribution, setting up Pozos' opener with a perfectly weighted through ball.
Constantinos Christou (West Virginia) – Provided the assist for Pozos' second goal, showcasing his ability to pick out teammates in scoring positions.
Tyler Jackson (American) – Made four saves for American, but ultimately couldn't prevent the shutout loss, highlighting his goalkeeping prowess despite the team's struggles.