TEANECK, N.J. – FDU men's soccer defeated Saint Francis 1-0 in the NEC Championship on Sunday afternoon. The Knights take home the NEC title for the tenth time in program history, and for the first time since 2022.
On a cold, windy day in Teaneck, the Red Flash and Knights faced off for a rematch on the biggest stage. The last time the two sides saw each other, Saint Francis defeated FDU 1-0 in Loretto, Pa. That was the only loss the Knights suffered in NEC play.
The Knights entered the championship seeking revenge, and were riding high off a thrilling victory in the NEC Semifinals. The Knights picked up a 3-1 win over Le Moyne on Thursday night behind a brace from Connor O'Reilly.
As the two teams kicked off in Teaneck on Sunday, it was apparent from the jump that University Stadium would be a pressure cooker. Both defenses were stellar across the first 45 minutes. FDU did not allow Saint Francis to get a single shot off. The Knights were able to get four shots off, but only one on target, a Jaime Barbero chance saved by Saint Francis goalkeeper Diego Garciarena.
The defensive pressure carried into the second half. Both teams again went scoreless across the final 45, with the Knights out-shooting the Red Flash 6-0 across the frame. FDU dominated the time of possession, but could not find the right scoring chance.
As the horn blew at the end of 90 minutes, both teams turned their attention to overtime. Once the first overtime period began, it did not take long for FDU to finally get in the net. In the 93rd minute, Ryan Kopay sent a crossing pass out in front of the box. Jaime Barbero was wide open and waiting, sending a header past Garciarena in goal.
Pandemonium erupted in Teaneck. The golden goal gave FDU the 1-0 victory, clinching the tenth NEC title in program history, and booking the Knights' ticket to the NCAA tournament. Barbero's goal was his sixth of the season, setting a new career-high.
Barbero's game-winner adds to his legend in NEC Championship games. The senior scored a brace, including the game-winning goal, in FDU's most recent title in 2022.
Following the match, the Knights hoisted the trophy, and four members of the team were named to the All-Tournament Team. Barbero, Arnau Rabassa Guillamon, Gabriel Le Guen, and Connor O'Reilly were each given the honor.
Connor O'Reilly was also named the 2025 NEC Tournament MVP.
The Knights have punched their ticket to the 2025 NCAA tournament. FDU will await to see where they head, which will be revealed in the 2025 Selection Show, taking place Monday, November 17 at 1 p.m.
Connect with the Knights on Instagram and X @FDUKnightsMSOC
Presto's Pizza is the presenting sponsor of the 2025 FDU men's soccer season
