The nationally top-ranked Cal State LA men’s soccer team remained unbeaten after sophomoreforward Angel Sandres scored a late game-winner, helping the Golden Eagles extend their winning streak.
In the latest United Soccer Coaches NCAA Division II national poll, Cal State LA held on to the No. 1 spot for the fourth consecutive poll.
Cal State East Bay created several opportunities early in the contest, including a shot that deflected off the crossbar and nearly put the Pioneers ahead. Despite the early pressure, the Golden Eagles found their footing and struck first.
Junior midfielder Felix Alverdal continued to prove himself as an offensive weapon for Cal State LA, converting his fourth goal of the season in the 10th minute to give the Golden Eagles an early advantage. Alverdal also delivered an impressive performance, finishing the match with a perfect four shots on target from four attempts.
The Pioneers continued to push forward at the start of the second half, searching for an equalizer. The contest remained tightly contested until the 71st minute, when a controversial VAR review resulted in a penalty kick for East Bay. The Pioneers converted the opportunity to level the match at 1–1.
Despite surrendering the equalizer, the Golden Eagles continued to apply pressure. Their attacking persistence ultimately paid off in the 87th minute, when Sandres found the back of the net to secure a dramatic late victory.
Cal State LA’s offensive pressure was reflected in its reported 21–8 advantage in shots on goal, including 13 shots on target in the second half. Sandres’ late strike sealed the win, improving the Golden Eagles’ conference record to an impressive 6–0–1 and their overall record to 11–0–1.
The result leaves Cal State East Bay at 2–3–2 in conference play and 2–8–3 overall, as the Pioneers were left to reflect on a hard-fought performance that came close to producing a major upset.
