MEMPHIS, Tenn. – FIU men's soccer forward
Eduardo Mustre scored twice Thursday night, leading the program to a 3-1 American Athletic Conference (AAC) semifinal victory over top-seeded Memphis and securing their spot in the AAC Championship match.
FIU (6-5-6) is set for its second AAC Championship appearance in the past three seasons, having previously captured the tournament title in 2022 with a 2-0 win over South Florida.
After a hard-fought, scoreless first half, the Panthers found their offensive rhythm, scoring all three goals in the final 45 minutes. FIU will face No. 3 seed Charlotte in the AAC Championship match on Sunday, Nov. 17 at 1 p.m. ET.
Mustre opened the scoring in the 52nd minute, marking his first brace of the season and the third multi-goal performance of his career, with previous efforts against Oregon State (8/24/23) and Charlotte (10/27/23). In addition, it marks four goals in his past three games.
His first goal came from a well-placed left-footed strike, giving FIU a 1-0 lead.
Memphis quickly responded, equalizing in the 53rd minute to tie the match at 1-1.
In the 72nd minute, midfielder
Diego Castillo was fouled inside the box, earning a penalty for FIU. Mustre calmly converted the spot kick, placing it into the left corner to put the Panthers back in front, 2-1.
Senior
Michael Appiah added an insurance goal in the 80th minute with a shot that deflected off a Memphis defender and found the back of the net, sealing FIU's 3-1 semifinal victory.
Goalkeeper
Nigel Van Haveren made three crucial saves, including two in the second half, to help secure the win.
FIU recorded ten shots on the night, with Mustre and Appiah each contributing three attempts. Seven FIU players played the full 90 minutes, showcasing their stamina and determination.
UP NEXT
FIU advances to the AAC Championship match on Sunday, Nov. 17 at 1 p.m. taking on the No. 3 seed Charlotte. It is streamed live on ESPN+.
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