The Green Bay Phoenix men’s soccer squad celebrated its first triumph of the 2026 campaign on Saturday, edging Western Illinois 2-1 at Aldo Santaga Stadium. After a scoreless first half, the Phoenix broke the deadlock early in the second period.

Second‑Half Surge

Midway through the third quarter, forward Nathan Moua found the net in the 53rd minute. After creating space in the penalty area, his shot glanced off a Leatherneck defender and slipped into the back of the net, giving Green Bay a 1-0 lead.

The Leathernecks answered quickly, equalizing in the 65th minute when Ryan Wrobleski converted a pass from Ty Duax. The goal restored parity at 1-1, but the lead would not last long.

Just seconds later, the Phoenix reclaimed the advantage. Dylan Drendel collected the ball on the left flank, delivered a precise square to Luke Nicholson on a fast break, and Nicholson slotted the ball past the Western Illinois keeper. The 2-1 score held for the remainder of the match.

Defensive Stand and Upcoming Schedule

Western Illinois pressed hard in the final minute and ten seconds, firing four shots, including an on‑target bicycle kick from Xavier Gagnon. Goalkeeper Drew Swancutt made the decisive save, preserving the win for Green Bay.

With the victory secured, the Phoenix look ahead to the start of Horizon League play. Their next challenge arrives on Wednesday, Sept. 9, when they host the Northern Kentucky Norse at Aldo Santaga Stadium at 4 p.m.

The win marks a promising step for the program as it seeks to build momentum in conference competition and provide an exciting soccer experience for Green Bay fans.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.