In a thrilling soccer match on October 19, 2025, USC Union overcame a two-goal deficit to triumph over USC Sumter with a final score of 3-2. The game showcased a tale of two halves as USC Sumter initially dominated, only for USC Union to stage a remarkable comeback in the second half.
USC Sumter took an early lead with Jeremiah Howell scoring an unassisted goal at the 24th minute, followed by Luciano Viejo’s strike at the 38th minute, which also went unassisted, putting Sumter ahead 2-0 by halftime.
However, the second half saw a resurgent USC Union side. The comeback began in the 78th minute when Steve Ouattara found the back of the net, narrowing the gap to 2-1. Just four minutes later, Pedro Rocha scored another unassisted goal, leveling the match at 2-2. The decisive moment came in the 87th minute when Max Manzelmann scored, completing USC Union’s comeback and securing the victory.
Despite USC Sumter’s early dominance, they could not maintain their lead, and USC Union’s goalkeeper, Pau Gimenez, made five crucial saves to keep his team in the game. Meanwhile, USC Sumter’s goalie, Martin Pastrello, faced a challenging second half, conceding three goals despite making two saves.
Union’s remarkable second-half performance underscored their resilience and ability to capitalize on their opportunities, earning them a well-deserved victory.
“The best way I can describe it is ‘spectacular’,” said Andrea Hoepelman. “The energy from the crowd really helped us build momentum.” Hoepelman says the team’s record season has been a result of “not losing their heads” and “styaing focused” when a game is not going their way. “We work as a team to come back,” he said.
“We had to work a lot to get it,” said sophomore Steve Outtara. “It was amazing.” Outtara says that he has been able to help the team by improving his speed this season. He wants all Bantam Soccer fans to know that the team is going to give their best going into the Region Tournament. “Thank you for your support,” he said.
“I feel happy – happy for the team, happy for the school to get a new record,” said freshman Massimo Rossi. “The game was like a rollar coaster of emotions, it makes you feel proud of what you are doing.” Rossi says building bonds on and off the field has helped the team stay strong.
Sophomore Pedro Rocha says that his leveling goal was his first at USC Union. “To score at such an important time was special,” he said. This year’s team feels “complete” to Rocha. “We have good chemistry,” he said. “We have the potential to win nationals if we stay hungry.”
“It feels aweseome, the team chemistry is unbelievable, we really believe in each other,” said Max Manzelmann, who scored the winning goal. “Afer Pedro scored, I was like ‘okay, maybe we have a chance for one more.’ I was able to get into a position where I could score. [When the game ended] everyone ran onto the field, it was incredible.”
“I’m extremely proud of our team and their accomplishments in the regular season,” said Head Coach Marc Curlee. “Fifteen games and 1 loss is impressive. I have to emphasize the fact that the job is not done and far from being complete. As a team we have to keep pushing and be relentless. Humility and passion will be key to moving forward.”
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