Serra’s Brace Powers Firebirds to 3–0 Start, Coach Thompson Hits Century Mark

WASHINGTON, D.C.  – The University of the District of Columbia Men's Soccer team continued its perfect start to the 2025 season with a thrilling 3–2 victory over Slippery Rock on Saturday afternoon at the UDC Turf Field. The win pushed the Firebirds to 3–0 for the first time since 2013 and marked the 100th career victory for Head Coach Matthew Thompson.

How it Happened

UDC opened the scoring in the 8th minute as David Serra finished a cross from Anania Belay with an assist also credited to Ignacio Lopez.  Slippery Rock answered quickly, netting goals in the 14th and 20th minutes to take a 2–1 lead.

The Firebirds equalized in the 33rd minute when Joao De Souza De Aquino scored unassisted to bring the match level at 2–2. Serra then delivered the game-winner in the 79th minute, scoring his second of the match off an assist from De Aquino.

Goalkeeper Sergio Becerra tallied three saves to earn the win in net.

Milestone Victory

With the result, Head Coach Matthew Thompson recorded his 100th career win at UDC. Thompson has guided the Firebirds through multiple East Coast Conference Championship runs, including the historic 2024 title, and now has his squad off to its best start in more than a decade.

What's Next

The Firebirds (3-0-0) will look to keep their unbeaten streak alive when they return to action at Seton Hill next Wednesday. The matchup kicks off a three-game road swing, to close out September.