Sharks lose FCSAA State Tournament Championship Match

The Miami Dade Sharks soccer team fell short in a hard-fought FCSAA State Tournament Championship match, losing 4-2 to Eastern Florida State. Despite a promising first half, the Sharks were unable to maintain their lead as the Titans capitalized on key opportunities to capture the title.

The Sharks struck first late in the opening half, with Edoardo Duchini breaking the deadlock in the 42nd minute, giving Miami Dade a 1-0 lead. Samuel Cavo, Miami Dade's goalkeeper, made several crucial saves throughout the half to keep Eastern Florida at bay, as the Sharks headed into halftime with the upper hand.

Eastern Florida turned the game around early in the second half. Luc Achermann-Stanfi scored in the 56th minute to equalize, sparking the Titans' comeback. Just minutes later, a red card on Miami Dade's Cavo led to a penalty kick, which Achermann-Stanfi converted, putting Eastern Florida ahead 2-1. With the momentum fully shifted, Eastern Florida's Lars Bekman scored in the 69th minute to extend their lead to 3-1.

The Sharks showed resilience and clawed back with an 84th-minute goal by Facundo Ochoa, assisted by Duchini, narrowing the score to 3-2 and giving Miami Dade a glimpse of hope. However, Eastern Florida's Daiki Okada sealed the victory in the final minute, finding the net in the 89th to bring the score to 4-2.

Miami Dade showcased impressive grit throughout the match, with standout performances from Cavo in goal, who made multiple clutch saves, and Ochoa, who continued his strong season with his 10th goal. The Sharks now await to see who they'll face in the District Tournament next week.