ALISO VIEJO, Calif. – Soka University closed out the 2025 regular season with a solid defensive performance, earning a 0-0 draw against Arizona Christian University at home. The Lions concluded the season with a 5-8-3 overall record and 5-6-2 conference record.
The Lions matched the Firestorm in total shots (10-10) and held the edge in shots on goal, recording four to Arizona Christian's zero. Soka also led in corner kicks (4-3), continuing their season trend of generating consistent attacking opportunities through set pieces.
Defensively, Soka was disciplined and organized. Goalkeeper
Eric Aparicio faced no shots on goal, resulting in his fourth shutout of the season.
On offense,
Kaulin Huss came closest to breaking the deadlock early in the match, striking the post in the 13th minute.
Armando Carrera and
Diego Barba each tested the Arizona Christian goalkeeper, but the Lions were ultimately denied despite steady pressure throughout both halves.
Season Summary
Soka wrapped up the regular season with a 5–8–3 overall record (including four shutouts) and continued to show progress in both defensive consistency and attacking depth.
Defensive Strength:
The Lions posted four clean sheets and reduced their goals-against average from 2.89 early in the season to 1.61 by season's end. Aparicio finished with 53 saves and a .671 save percentage across 16 matches.
Offensive Production:
Soka's attack was led by
Armando Carrera (4 goals, 27 shots),
Rudy Garcia (3 goals, 2 assists), and
Mateus Seiki Rosa (2 goals, 1 assist). The Lions produced 157 shots, averaging nearly 10 per game, with 39.5% of those on target.
Team Highlights:
Most goals in a match: 3 (vs. The Master's, Life Pacific – twice)
Most assists in a match: 3 (vs. Life Pacific, Oct. 25)
Most shots in a match: 22 (vs. Life Pacific, Oct. 25)
Most saves in a match: 8 (at Benedictine Mesa, Sept. 13)
Soka showed strong mid-season form, earning back-to-back shutouts over Hope International (1–0) and Life Pacific (3–0) and a key early road win at Benedictine Mesa (1–0).
The Lions finish the regular season on a three-game unbeaten streak (1–0–2), highlighted by disciplined defending and improved possession play.
