MIAMI – FIU men's soccer earned its first win of the 2026 season Thursday night, defeating No. 20 NC State, 2-1, in a thrilling contest at Leyva Family Field at FIU Soccer Stadium.
With the match tied 1-1 in the 75th minute, forward Santi Possu delivered the game-winning goal off an assist from midfielder Martin Piedeleu, finding the back of the net to give the Panthers the lead for good. The goal marked Possu's team-leading second of the season.
The victory marked FIU's first win over a ranked opponent since Oct. 24, 2025, when the Panthers defeated No. 24 Charlotte. It also marked FIU's first victory over an ACC opponent since Sept. 3, 2022, when the Panthers defeated No. 13 North Carolina.
FIU (1-1-1) struck first in the 22nd minute following a free kick, as Owen Barnett sent a long-range effort into the back of the net for his first goal of the season to give the Panthers a 1-0 advantage.
NC State responded in the 26th minute after drawing a foul inside the box, earning a penalty kick that the Wolfpack converted to even the match at 1-1 heading into halftime.
The Panthers continued to battle throughout the second half before Possu broke through in the 75th minute, securing FIU's first victory of the campaign.
Both teams recorded six shots, with FIU placing two on goal. Four Panthers Michele Ballanti, Finn Bauens, Jad Benjelloun and Alfonso Gilleard-Soriano played all 90 minutes. Piedeleu recorded his first assist as a Panther.
In goal, Nigel Van Haveren made two saves to help secure the Panthers' first victory of the season.
Up Next
FIU continues their homestand on Monday, Aug. 31 at 7 PM when they host St. Thomas (Fla). from Leyva Family Field. It will be streamed live on ESPN+.
Baptist Health
The 2026 FIU men's soccer season is presented by Baptist Health, The Official Sports Medicine Provider of FIU Athletics
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