Saint Louis University’s Billikens will face the University of Akron Zips in the NCAA Division I Men’s Soccer Championship quarterfinals. This highly anticipated match will take place on Saturday, December 6, at noon (CT) at FirstEnergy Stadium in Akron, Ohio.
Match Overview
The Billikens enter the matchup with a record of 12 wins, 2 losses, and 8 draws, while the Zips boast a 13-4-3 record. The winner of this contest will secure a place in the 2025 Men’s College Cup, scheduled for December 12 and 15 at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, North Carolina.
Key Stats and Background
- Series History: Akron leads the series 8-5-1, but they are undefeated in the last five encounters against the Billikens.
- Billikens’ Recent Performance: SLU is unbeaten in their last 13 matches, with their last loss occurring on September 23 at Akron.
- NCAA Championship History: The Billikens are looking for their 17th College Cup appearance and their first since 1997, having won 10 NCAA championships overall.
The Road to the Quarterfinals
The Billikens advanced through the NCAA Tournament with impressive performances. They started by defeating Kentucky 2-1, thanks to a dramatic equalizer and golden goal from freshman Jack DiMaria. SLU then faced off against No. 6 seed Indiana, where Tanner Anderson secured a 1-0 victory with an early goal. Most recently, they played at No. 11 Bryant, where a penalty-kick shootout advanced them after a 2-2 draw.
Goalkeeper Jeremi Abonnel’s outstanding performance helped the team secure a quarterfinal spot. He made critical saves during the shootout against Bryant, showcasing his skills as the A-10 Goalkeeper of the Year.
About the Zips
Akron, the No. 14 seed, reached the quarterfinals after a first-round bye and wins against Notre Dame and Duke, with the latter match concluding 2-0. The Zips have a strong defensive record, allowing only 0.60 goals per game, ranking fifth nationally.
Leading their offense is Stefan Dobrijevic, who has accumulated 27 points this season. Goalkeeper Mitch Budler, the Big East Goalkeeper of the Year, has recorded 13 shutouts, the highest in the NCAA.
Upcoming Watch Parties
Fans wishing to support the Billikens can attend watch parties at various locations, including FanDuel Sports Network Live! at Ballpark Village. Additionally, SLU’s Student Involvement Center will host a watch party in the Grand Dining Hall, welcoming all students.
This match represents a significant moment for both programs as they vie for a spot in the prestigious College Cup. The Billikens hope to capitalize on their recent streak and history, while the Zips aim to continue their successful campaign.
