KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Ecclesia College men's soccer opened pool play at the 2025 NCCAA Division I Men's Soccer National Championship with a strong 3–1 victory over Ohio Christian University on Tuesday afternoon, setting the tone early in the national tournament.

After a scoreless first half, the Royals broke through in the second period and never looked back, using disciplined defending and timely finishing to secure all three goals in their opening match.

Second-Half Surge

Following a tightly contested opening 45 minutes, Ecclesia found its breakthrough in the 60th minute when Julius Herzog finished a quality buildup to put the Royals in front. The goal shifted momentum and forced Ohio Christian to chase the game.

Ohio Christian briefly responded via a penalty kick in the 67th minute, but Ecclesia answered with composure and control, refusing to let the match swing.

Herzog struck again in the 81st minute, netting his second goal of the afternoon and restoring a comfortable cushion. Late insurance came in the 87th minute, when Jahmaine Bartlette capped off the performance and sealed the 3–1 result.

Complete Team Performance

Ecclesia matched Ohio Christian in total shots while holding the edge in shots on goal, highlighting the Royals' efficiency in the attacking third. Defensively, the back line stayed organized under pressure and limited second-chance opportunities, while the midfield dictated tempo throughout the second half.

The win gives Ecclesia an important early advantage in pool play as teams jockey for semifinal qualification.

Looking Ahead

The Royals return to action today at 4:00 p.m. with a major pool-play matchup against #2 seed Campbellsville University. With momentum on their side, Ecclesia will look to carry its second-half form into a clash that will  have significant implications for the tournament standings.

A win over Campbellsville would further strengthen the Royals' position and move them closer to a semifinal berth as national-championship play continues.