Written By Rev. Justin C. Jackson

Houston, TX (September 6, 2025) – In a spirited exhibition against semi-professional side Aria Soccer Club (ASC), the North American University Stallions showed grit and flashes of attacking quality before ultimately falling 2-1 in Houston.

The Stallions opened the scoring in the 56th minute when Pablo Gil buried a clinical finish off a setup from Sandile Mdauli, putting NAU in front 1-0. The goal energized the squad, with midfielders Joseph Figueroa and Flynn Faulkner helping to maintain possession and push the tempo.

But ASC's experience showed late. Forward I. Luquetta struck twice in quick succession (79th and 83rd minutes) to flip the match and hand the hosts the win.

Goalkeeper Gino Burioni made three saves across 69 minutes of play, keeping the Stallions competitive against ASC's 11 total shots. NAU recorded 10 shots of their own, five on target, with Gil leading the attack.

The contest, while unofficial, gave the Stallions valuable minutes against high-level competition.

"This was about sharpening our execution and testing our guys against a tough semi-pro side," the coach commented. "We saw positives in our buildup play, and that's something we'll build on heading into our season."

Though the match won't count toward the Stallions' record, it served as a strong measuring stick for the team's progress.

Get those 4 fingered Hooves up and Goooooooo Stallionsssss!!!!!!!!!!!
#StallionsSoccer #NAUMensSoccer