ORANGE BEACH, Ala. – WVU Tech men's soccer continues rewriting program history, advancing to its first NAIA National Championship final after a 2–1 semifinal victory over No. 7 MidAmerica Nazarene on Saturday at the Orange Beach Sportsplex.
The No. 11 Golden Bears (20–0–2) extended their unbeaten season to 22 matches behind a composed defensive performance, timely scoring on each side of halftime, and another steady outing from senior goalkeeper Luka Felix.
First-Half Breakthrough
After absorbing early pressure and weathering five MNU corner kicks in the opening 45 minutes, Tech struck first just before the break. In the 44th minute, freshman defender Linus Kleinewiese delivered the opener, finishing to put WVU Tech ahead 1–0.
Duperray Doubles the Lead
Tech added to its advantage in the 61st minute, when freshman forward Leny Duperray made it 2–0 off a setup from freshman Julen Recalde, who earned the assist with a clean service into the box.
MNU Pushes Back, Felix Holds Strong
MidAmerica Nazarene responded in the 68th minute through standout midfielder Antonio Mugica, cutting the lead to 2–1.
The Pioneers generated 12 shots, four on target and earned eight corner kicks, but Felix turned away three second-half saves, including a pair during MNU's pressure between the 55th and 71st minutes.
Tech Closes Out a Historic Win
The Golden Bears finished with nine shots and three on frame, converting efficiently while defending with composure across the final 20 minutes. WVU Tech's depth also played a role, with 14 field players logging minutes and multiple defensive substitutions helping close out the match.
Golden Bear Highlights
- Historic first: Tech advances to the NAIA national final for the first time in program history.
- Kleinewiese strikes first: Freshman nets the 44th-minute opener.
- Duperray adds insurance: Scores his second postseason goal in the 61st minute.
- Recalde creates again: Assist on the eventual match-winner.
- Felix steady again: Three saves, all after halftime.
- Team defense delivers: Allowed just four shots on goal despite 12 total MNU attempts.
- Unbeaten run continues: Tech improves to 20–0–2.
What's Next
WVU Tech advances to the NAIA Men's Soccer National Championship Final on Monday, Dec. 8 at 3 p.m. in Orange Beach, Alabama, facing Grand View University. Coverage will be available at goldenbearathletics.com/coverage.
