On a challenging day for soccer, the Milwaukee men’s team secured a 1-0 victory over Purdue Fort Wayne in the Horizon League Tournament’s first round. The match took place at Engelmann Stadium, with Daiki Kumakawa scoring late and goalkeeper Daniel Ibarra making seven saves to ensure the win.
This was the Panthers’ first postseason appearance in three years. They broke a three-game losing streak against the Mastodons, advancing to Thursday’s semifinals in Michigan. “We kind of expected the weather today – we talked about that as a group and said ‘who knows what the elements are going to bring today’ … I think we experienced all four seasons in 90 minutes,” head coach Kris Kelderman remarked about the conditions.
The Panthers faced significant pressure from Purdue Fort Wayne during the first half, with their opponents taking 12 of 15 shots before halftime. However, Milwaukee had early chances, including Bienvenu Djunga’s close-range shot and Jack Wagner’s header attempt.
Ibarra was crucial throughout, making key saves at critical moments. In the second half, David Cox intercepted a ball leading to Kumakawa’s decisive goal in the 73rd minute. Felix Huwiler nearly added another goal later on.
Despite being outshot 19-7 and facing an 11-2 corner kick disadvantage, Milwaukee held firm defensively to secure their victory. “That’s what winners do, they find ways to win,” Kelderman stated regarding his team’s performance despite statistical disadvantages.
Milwaukee will now travel to Michigan for Thursday’s semifinal against Robert Morris at Oakland University.
