May 9, 2026 | Lancaster, California
LANCASTER, Calif. — AV ALTA FC delivered a determined performance Saturday night at Lancaster Municipal Stadium, defeating Forward Madison FC 2–0 despite playing the entire second half with 10 men.
Two first-half goals from Jerry Desdunes and Godwin Antwi proved decisive as the home side secured an important victory in front of its supporters.
AV ALTA wasted little time establishing control. Six minutes into the contest, the hosts earned a penalty kick, giving Desdunes an early opportunity to put his team ahead. The forward converted from the spot for a 1–0 advantage.
Forward Madison attempted to respond, but AV ALTA continued pressing forward and creating opportunities in the attacking third.
In the 21st minute, Antwi delivered a highlight of the evening, unleashing a powerful strike from outside the penalty area into the upper corner. The finish doubled the advantage and energized the Lancaster crowd.
The match took a dramatic turn shortly before halftime. AV ALTA defender Miguel Pajaro received a red card in the 44th minute, leaving the hosts shorthanded and forcing them to protect their lead.
Forward Madison emerged from halftime determined to capitalize. The visitors increased possession, pushed players forward and applied sustained pressure in search of a breakthrough.
Despite that pressure, AV ALTA remained organized defensively, limiting Madison’s ability to turn possession into goals.
A controversial moment came in the 82nd minute when Madison’s Mohamed Munjoma went down inside the penalty area. Rather than awarding a penalty, the referee issued a yellow card for simulation.
As the final minutes ticked away, AV ALTA continued defending its advantage, refusing to allow the visitors a route back into the match.
The final whistle confirmed a hard-earned 2–0 victory for the Lancaster club. Beyond the three points, the performance demonstrated AV ALTA’s resilience and defensive discipline under pressure. Two early goals and a determined effort while shorthanded gave its supporters a memorable night at Lancaster Municipal Stadium.
