Syracuse men’s soccer came up short against No. 11 Louisville on Saturday, suffering a 1-0 defeat at SU Soccer Stadium. The Orange fell to 7-5-1 overall and 1-3-1 in Atlantic Coast Conference play, while the Cardinals improved to 10-1-2 and 3-1-1 in conference competition.
Louisville scored the game’s only goal in the 22nd minute when Braydon Sellers converted a pass from Jack Boring. Syracuse had an opportunity early in the contest, but Nathan Scott’s attempt in the second minute sailed just wide of the net.
The Cardinals held a narrow 7-6 advantage in shots during the first half and carried their one-goal lead into the break.
Syracuse increased its pressure after halftime but could not find the equalizer. The Orange generated eight corner kicks compared with three for Louisville, creating opportunities to level the match.
Jordan Grey provided a spark after entering as a substitute, putting both of his shots on target. Landon Darko and Sachiel Ming also tested Louisville goalkeeper Nathaniel Abraham, who recorded four saves to secure the shutout.
At the opposite end, Syracuse goalkeeper Juan Martinez-Bastidas played the entire match and finished with two saves.
The contest became increasingly physical after halftime. Louisville committed 16 fouls to Syracuse’s seven, and both teams received three yellow cards. Kristjan Fortier, Gabriel Oksanen and Ming were cautioned for the Orange.
Despite matching Louisville’s shot total and creating more corner-kick opportunities, Syracuse could not turn its chances into a goal.
The Orange will look to rebound next Saturday, October 17, when they travel to face Wake Forest. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.
