Firebirds Battle Caldwell to 2–2 Draw in Non-Conference Matchup

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The University of the District of Columbia men's soccer team played to a hard-fought 2–2 draw against Caldwell University on Wednesday afternoon at the UDC Turf Field.

The Firebirds wasted no time getting on the board, striking just 34 seconds into the match. Zachary Parker opened the scoring with his second goal of the season, finishing a feed from Isaiah Daniel to give UDC an early 1–0 lead.

UDC doubled its lead in the 31st minute through Mustafa Tahir, who capitalized on a well-worked team sequence. After Yamah Nawabi sent a cross into the box, Parker got a head on it before Niaza Tamini redirected the ball toward goal, where Tahir collected it and finished from close range to make it 2–0. Caldwell responded immediately, cutting the deficit seconds later on a goal from Hakon Rake, assisted by Hugo Thell.

The Cougars found the equalizer early in the second half as Sam Porthouse scored in the 46th minute off assists from Pieter Hengeveld and Thell. Despite several late chances from both sides, neither team was able to break the deadlock.

Goalkeeper Sergio Becerra turned in another strong performance for the Firebirds, recording seven saves on 19 Caldwell shots to preserve the draw.

With the result, UDC moves to 5–3–3 overall and remains 1–2–2 in ECC play, while Caldwell stands at 3–6–3.

The Firebirds will return to action on Saturday, October 18, closing out a three game home stand against non conference opponent Chestnut Hill.