MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (November 10, 2023)- The St. Thomas University (STU) Men's Soccer team was defeated by Keiser University in penalty kicks in the Sun Conference Championship game.
 
The match started with a series of yellow cards, setting the tone for a physical and competitive game. Keiser's Timo Boomkens received a yellow card at 9:11, and St. Thomas capitalized on the opportunity with Tomas Persico scoring the first goal at 10:29, assisted by Hernando Suarez. However, Keiser quickly responded, and Mikael Baisotti found the back of the net at 14:38, leveling the score at 1-1. The game continued with a flurry of shots from both teams, showcasing the skill and determination of the players.
 
As the match progressed, tensions rose with several yellow cards and fouls on both sides. The intensity of the game was evident as players fought for possession and control of the ball. St. Thomas had numerous scoring opportunities, including shots from Guido Cacciabue, Joaquin Domber, and Niklas Hoener, but the Keiser defense and goalkeeper Santiago Nebot stood firm.
 
The second half saw more yellow cards, substitutions, and close calls for both teams. St. Thomas continued to press forward with shots from Tomas Persico and Hernando Suarez, but they were unable to break the deadlock. In the 73rd minute, Keiser's Aldair Chavez received a red card, reducing them to 10 players. St. Thomas seized the opportunity to attack, but Santiago Nebot, Keiser's goalkeeper, made crucial saves to keep his team in the game.
 
The match went into overtime, and both teams had chances to secure the victory, but solid defensive plays and goalkeeping kept the scoreline unchanged. As the clock ticked down, it was clear that the game would be decided by a penalty shootout.
 
The tension was palpable as each player stepped up for their shootout attempt. Guido Cacciabue, Santiago Duque, and Beknur Nurlanbek scored for St. Thomas, while Franco Acerbi made crucial saves. Keiser's Santiago Nebot, Tristan Silva, and Belmin Ramdedovic also found the net, keeping the shootout close. In the end Keiser would make one last pk to end the game and win the championship.