The UConn men’s soccer team will be back in action on Saturday, Sept. 27, as they take on Big East rival Villanova. The Huskies are coming off their first loss and one of the most challenging games of the season so far. The Huskies played a very tough Bryant team that gave them struggles both defensively and offensively. The Huskies currently lead the Wildcats with an all-time series record of 16-4-1.
Villanova enters the contest at 2-3-3, with wins over Rider, where they had their most shots in a game this year, and St. Joseph’s. The Wildcats’ most impressive and notable game came against DePaul, where they were able to force a draw. In that game they were able to control the pace of the game and keep their fouls minimal as they forced a draw versus a DePaul squad.
UConn’s Austin Brummett and Balthazar Saunders will both look to stay hot as they lead the team with six and three goals, respectively. Sabri Hanni will also look to share the ball and score when needed for a UConn offense. UConn goalie Kyle Durham has also been phenomenal this year and will aim to continue his momentum as he has given up less than a goal per game on average.
The Huskies have also been good with penalties on the year, as they have 10 compared to their opponents 18. UConn will look to keep this up to earn tactical advantage at home.
Villanova’s offense is powered by Sam Nyenka, who shined in their win over Rider with four points, and Fynn Lahrsen, who have combined for five goals this year. Despite this, the Wildcats have struggled to get chances inside the box. Villanova also has a split goalie system, as both Sebastian Cutler Dejesus and Alex Yagudayev have played four games so far this year. Cutler Dejesus leads the two in save percentage at 0.808 so he will likely get the nod in this one.
UConn has a chance to start a run as they head into the bulk of Big East play. This will be an essential conference matchup for the Huskies. The game will begin on Saturday, Sept. 27, at 6 p.m.