Pilots Rally from Two-Goal Deficit, Defeat Faulkner in Overtime 3–2 to Reach NAIA National Final Site

SHREVEPORT, La. — LSU Shreveport is headed back to the NAIA Men's Soccer National Tournament final site after a dramatic 3–2 overtime victory over Faulkner University on Saturday afternoon. The Pilots erased an early two-goal deficit and secured the golden goal in the 96th minute to punch their ticket to Orange Beach, Alabama. With the win, LSUS improves to 14-2-5, while Faulkner concludes its season at 11-5-3.

Faulkner struck twice in the opening five minutes, both goals coming from Konsti Witte. His first tally arrived just 1:06 into the match on an unassisted effort, followed by a second strike at 4:36, assisted by Matheus Magnusson, giving the Eagles a quick 2–0 advantage.

The Pilots regrouped at halftime and responded immediately in the second period. Joel Trueb cut the deficit in half at 47:11, finishing a setup from Jack Thomas to make it 2–1. LSUS continued to apply pressure, and their persistence paid off in the 89th minute when David Vejsmose buried the equalizer at 88:10, assisted by Jaime Zani and Jacob Botterill, sending the match to extra time.

In overtime, the Pilots completed the comeback. At 95:24, Thomas delivered the game-winner off a feed from Trueb, sealing the 3–2 victory and sending LSUS to the Round of 16.

In goal, Sondre Liahagen-Kolnes went the distance for the Pilots, allowing two goals while making one save. Faulkner goalkeeper Andre Ferreira turned in a strong performance with 11 saves but conceded three goals in the loss.

LSU Shreveport now advances to the Round of 16, where the Pilots will meet Warner Pacific University (Ore.) at the national final site in Orange Beach.

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