University of Connecticut
8-7-2, 4-3-0
Xavier
9-2-4, 2-2-3
| Team | 1 | 2 | Final F |
|---|---|---|---|
| UConn | 0 | 2 | 2 |
| Xavier | 0 | 1 | 1 |
10/31/2026 11:58:00 PM | Men's Soccer
Coach Gbandi Postgame Interview
CINCINNATI, Ohio – Two goals in the final 25 minutes propelled UConn men's soccer past No. 17 Xavier on Saturday at Corcoran Field. The victory improves the Huskies to 4-3 in BIG EAST play and 8-7-2 overall on the season.
The Huskies controlled much of the play in the first half, holding a 6-4 advantage in shots. UConn also recorded the only three shots on goal of the half, as the Huskies back line kept Xavier from registering a shot on target through the opening 45 minutes. Despite creating several chances, the Huskies were unable to find the back of the net, as the first half ended scoreless.
UConn continued to push for the opening goal in the second half, testing Xavier goalkeeper Jonny Mennell with three shots on frame in the first 20 minutes.
Sophomore midfielder Preston Alessio broke the scoreless deadlock in the 68th minute, giving the Huskies a 1-0 lead. The goal marks Alessio's fourth of the season.
Just eight minutes later, senior forward Elijah Langford doubled the Huskies advantage, making it 2-0 in the 76th minute with his team-leading eighth goal of the season.
Xavier responded with a goal in the 81st minute to cut the Huskies lead to 2-1. The Musketeers pushed for a late equalizer, but UConn's defense stood tall to preserve the lead and secure three crucial points in the BIG EAST play.
The Huskies finished with 17 shots and nine on goal while Xavier had nine shots and three on goal. Both teams were whistled for 26 fouls while UConn was shown four yellow cards to Xavier's two. The Musketeers goalkeeper made seven saves, while Kyle Durham finished with two. Alessio scored and led UConn with five shots, putting four on goal. His four shots on goal set a new career high. Langford scored the game-winning goal on one of his two shots, recording his third game-winner this season. Steve Delacour recorded an assist. Evan Pickering added an assist off the bench, his first of the season.
Up Next
UConn will close out its regular season slate on Friday, November 6 when the Huskies welcome No. 2 Georgetown to Morrone Stadium. TICKETS
Players Mentioned
Team Stats
Preston Alessio (4)
Assisted By: Steve Delacour
GOAL by UCONN Alessio, Preston Assist by Delacour, Steve.
67:28
Elijah Langford (8)
Assisted By: Evan Pickering
GOAL by UCONN Langford, Elijah Assist by Pickering, Evan.
75:32
Ely Detty (3)
Assisted By: Osi Onwudiwe
GOAL by XAV Detty, Ely Assist by Onwudiwe, Osi.
80:59
