CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – Stetson men's soccer battled nationally-ranked Virginia on Sunday night at Klöckner Stadium, falling 1-0 in a tightly contested match against the No. 17 Cavaliers. The game marked the first-ever meeting between the two programs as the Hatters continued their season opening road trip.
After a heavily defensive start to the game, the Cavaliers broke through just before halftime, converting a corner in the 39th minute for what proved to be the game's only goal. Despite the setback, the Hatters regrouped and grew stronger as the match wore on, creating several chances in the second half and forcing Virginia to stay organized defensively. The Hatters attempted eight shots in the contest, five of which came in the closing half.
Joao Freitas highlighted Stetson's attack, testing the Cavalier keeper with a dangerous shot in the 72nd minute, which would be the Hatters' only shot on net. Maurice Hauser and Zsombor Pall also pressured the Virginia back line with multiple attempts, while Valentin Fontaine added to the Hatters' second half push.
In goal, Nicolò Radaelli anchored the defense with three key saves to keep Stetson within striking distance throughout the night.
The Hatters (0-2-0) will now turn their attention to the midweek when they host the Presbyterian Blue Hose to the Athletic Training Center for their home opener on Thursday, August 28. The match is set to begin at 7:00 PM with live stats available on GoHatters.com and live video streaming on ESPN+.
About Stetson Athletics
At Stetson University, student-athletes don't just compete—they thrive. Located in historic DeLand, Florida, between Orlando and Daytona Beach, Stetson offers the perfect blend of competitive athletics, academic excellence, and an unbeatable Central Florida lifestyle. As the oldest private university in the region, Stetson supports approximately 500 student-athletes across 19 NCAA Division I sports. Nicknamed the "Hatters" after the institution's namesake John B. Stetson, a hat manufacturer who originated the modern-day cowboy hat, most Stetson athletic teams compete in the Atlantic Sun Conference, where they proudly hold the longest active membership since 1985. With top-tier facilities, personalized support, and a welcoming campus community, Stetson is where students can grow, compete, and succeed. Learn more at GoHatters.com or follow social media accounts @StetsonHatters.
