BOCA RATON, Fla. – Senior Eduardo Mustre's game-winning goal propelled the No. 5 seed FIU men's soccer team to a thrilling victory over No. 4 seed Florida Atlantic, advancing FIU to the American Athletic Conference (AAC) Semi-Finals.
 
With the win, FIU (5-5-6) advances in the AAC Championships, set to face No. 1 seed Memphis Wednesday, Nov. 13, at 8 p.m. ET in Memphis, Tenn on ESPN+.
 
Mustre scored the lone goal of the night in the 10th minute, capitalizing on a lofted ball into the box. The senior skillfully fired a left-footed shot to secure this critical tournament win. Mustre, the team captain, has now scored in back-to-back matches and has found the net in three of his last four appearances.
 
Defensively, FIU held firm against a high-powered Florida Atlantic offense that led the conference with 31 goals this season. The Panthers' defensive resilience limited the Owls' to just six shots to ensure the shutout.
 
In goal, Nigel Van Haveren made his return to the lineup for his first start since Oct. 20, posting two saves on the road in a crucial win.
 
The victory marks the Panthers third overall in the AAC Championship tournament and advances to the semi-final for the first time since 2022 when FIU took down Memphis 1-0 to eventually become AAC Championships.
 
Seven FIU players logged the full 90 minutes on the pitch including seniors Diego Castillo, Mustre and junior Leo Vilchis. On the backline, freshman David Houja delivered a standout performance, anchoring the defense to help secure the shutout.
 
UP NEXT
FIU heads to Memphis, Tenn for a semi-finals matchup against No. 1 seed Memphis on Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 8 p.m. streamed live on ESPN+.

BAPTIST HEALTH
Presented by Baptist Health, The Official Sports Medicine Provider of FIU Athletics
 
SOCIAL MEDIA
Fans are encouraged to follow the Panthers on Instagram (@FIUMSoccer), Twitter (@FIUMensSoccer), and Facebook (Facebook.com/FIUMensSoccer) for all the latest Men's Soccer news