ORLANDO, Florida - UCF continued their winning streak with a commanding 5-1 victory over Bradley on Tuesday evening at the UCF Soccer Complex. The Knights (5-5-1) extended their winning run to three matches while Bradley (2-6-5) suffered their second consecutive defeat.
Lilian Ricol opened the scoring for UCF in the 7th minute, capitalizing on an assist from the duo of Clarence Awoudor and Malick Thiaw. The Knights doubled their advantage in the 33rd minute through Clarence Awoudor, who finished clinically from a Ricol setup. Bradley pulled one back in the 43rd minute when Mitch Coughlon found the net off DJ Koulai's assist, but Drew Hansen restored UCF's two-goal cushion just before halftime in the 45th minute.
The first half showcased UCF's attacking prowess, with the Knights recording 14 shots to Bradley's 2. Younes Boudinar and Clarence Awoudor were particularly active in the final third, while Bradley struggled to maintain possession in dangerous areas. Connor Chester's yellow card in the 49th minute reflected the Braves' growing frustration with UCF's dominant play.
UCF continued their offensive onslaught after the break, with Younes Boudinar extending the lead in the 52nd minute. Malick Thiaw added the fifth goal in the 56th minute, benefiting from excellent combination play between Claudel N'goubou and Clarence Awoudor. The Knights managed their lead effectively through multiple substitutions, with Coach Scott Calabrese utilizing his bench to maintain pressure while resting key players.
The final statistics highlighted UCF's dominance, as they outshot Bradley 27-3, with 12 shots on target compared to Bradley's 2. The Knights also held the advantage in corner kicks (6-2), while Bradley's goalkeeper was forced into seven saves throughout the match. The single yellow card to Bradley's Connor Chester was the only disciplinary action of the evening.
Clarence Awoudor emerged as the standout performer with a goal and two assists, while Lilian Ricol's early goal and assist set the tone for UCF's attacking display. Bradley's Mitch Coughlon provided his team's lone bright spot with his 43rd-minute strike, but the Braves struggled to generate consistent offensive threats against UCF's organized defense.
UCF's tactical approach emphasized quick transitions and wide play, effectively stretching Bradley's defensive structure. The Knights' midfield control, particularly through Younes Boudinar and Drew Hansen, allowed them to dictate the tempo throughout the match. Bradley's attempts to counter were repeatedly thwarted by UCF's high pressing system.
The victory extends UCF's impressive run of form, having outscored opponents 10-1 in their last three matches. For Bradley, the loss continues a challenging stretch that has seen them win just twice in thirteen matches this season. The Knights' balanced attack and defensive solidarity suggest they're hitting their stride at a crucial point in the campaign.
Looking ahead, UCF will aim to maintain their momentum when they travel to Old Dominion on October 18, while Bradley returns home to face Western Michigan on the same date, seeking to snap their current losing streak. The Knights' comprehensive performance sets a high standard for their remaining fixtures, while Bradley must regroup quickly to salvage their season.