WINFIELD, Kan. – Northwestern Men's Soccer opened the 2026 season with a 2-1 comeback victory over Southwestern on Thursday night at Richard L. Jantz Stadium. The Raiders trailed 1-0 at halftime before scoring twice in the final eight minutes to secure the win and begin the season 1-0.
Despite the Raiders controlling much of the opening half offensively, Southwestern struck first in the 44th minute when Nicola Antiglio scored off an assist from Cooper Bates, sending the host team into halftime with a 1-0 advantage.
The Raiders came out with increased pressure after the break, creating several chances and earning five corner kicks in the second half. The Raiders continued to push forward, with goalkeeper Franco Guazzotti making a series of saves to keep Southwestern in front.
The breakthrough finally came in the 83rd minute. Bram Zwinkels delivered the assist to Gorka Ilundain, who found the back of the net to level the match at 1-1. Just four minutes later, Rasmus Morrison completed the comeback, scoring the game-winning goal with an assist credited to the team.
Northwestern finished the night with 12 shots, including eight on goal, while holding Southwestern to just four shots and one shot on goal.
GAME NOTES
- Northwestern opens the season 1-0 following the 2-1 comeback victory.
- The Raiders scored both of their goals in the final eight minutes of regulation.
- Gorka Ilundain scored his first goal of the season and tied the match in the 83rd minute.
- Rasmus Morrison scored the game-winning goal in the 87th minute.
- Bram Zwinkels recorded an assist on Ilundain's goal.
- Northwestern held an 8-1 advantage in shots on goal.
Up Next: The Raiders are back on the pitch this Saturday in North Newton, Kansas, where they will take on Bethel College at 12:30pm CT.
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