The UCLA men’s soccer team played to a 0-0 draw against Michigan State on Monday night in East Lansing. Both teams had several chances, but neither side was able to score.
UCLA recorded eight shots and four corner kicks during the match, while Michigan State finished with ten shots, including four on target. Freshman Francis Bonsu and junior Tre Wright each took two shots for the Bruins.
Goalkeeper Kevin Box achieved his third shutout in his first four starts for UCLA, making four saves throughout the game. One of his key moments came in the final seconds when he stopped a shot from Chimnosoh Okeke to preserve the tie.
Michigan State’s Jack Guggemos also contributed offensively with two shots on goal.
Early in the match, Tre Wright nearly put UCLA ahead when his shot inside the box beat the goalkeeper but struck the crossbar. In another sequence during the 17th minute, both Wright and Sergi Solans Ormo saw their attempts blocked by Michigan State defenders.
Box made a significant save in the 30th minute, diving to stop a long-range effort from Guggemos after a Spartans’ corner kick.
After halftime, UCLA continued to control possession. Ander Marticorena had an opportunity in the 63rd minute but sent his shot over the bar. Later in the second half, Bonsu created two chances inside Michigan State’s penalty area; both efforts failed to find the net as one was blocked and another went high.
With only seconds left on the clock, Michigan State pushed forward for a late winner, but Box denied Okeke’s attempt as time expired.
UCLA will next play at home against Rutgers on Friday, October 24 at Wallis Annenberg Stadium. The match is scheduled for 7 p.m. PT and will be broadcast on Big Ten Plus.
