HIALEAH, Fla. (Aug. 26, 2024) - A new era of Florida National women's soccer commenced on Aug. 26, as Ruy Da Silva coached his first contest as the head of the women's soccer team. FNU will have to wait for its first win of 2024, as the Conquistadors fell 4-1 to the Florida Memorial Lions at Milander Park.

Florida National did not generate enough offensive pressure, totaling just three shots to Florida Memorial's 11. The Lions also had nine corner kick attempts to FNU's two.

The first half saw FNU fall behind 1-0 on a goal scored by Sierra Bartley close to the net in heavy traffic. In the 38th minute, the Lions doubled their advantage on a beautiful cross from Rudo Marufu that was tapped in by sub Soemili Perez.

Daniela Sermini, Delmis Reyes Amaya and Natalya Laura Paula all managed to get a shot attempt that missed the mark before the first half came to a close.

The second period got off to a rocky start, as an error on the ground by FNU keeper Hailey Llijin allowed Donna Perez Rodriguez to steal a loose ball and slip another goal past the line three minutes into the half. The Lions continued to press FNU's back line and managed another goal in the 61st minute by Rodriguez on a pass from Daniela Canizales.

The highlight of the afternoon for the Conquistadors came in the 65th minute after freshman Iandra Sabattine Soares de Souza scored a solo goal in the top left corner of the net. This score sent FNU's bench and fans into jubilation but proved to be FNU's sole goal of the afternoon.

Florida Memorial claimed its second straight win over FNU dating back to last season and its third win overall. 

Up Next: Conquistador women's soccer seeks an upset over RV St. Thomas Aug. 29.