What an amazing performance of our JCU Men’s Soccer team last night in one of the most difficult matches of the Universities of Rome Championship against Link Campus University (LCU).

LCU has always been one of the toughest teams in the league and last-Season team champion. But our Gladiators came to the game prepared and determined, and they all gave an excellent performance, defeating the rivals 3-2.

Our JCU Cheerleading team warmed up the Stadium at the beginning of the game with their incredible performance. And their cheer and support definitely helped and brought luck to our Gladiators! Thank you, ladies!

JCU dominated the first half from the beginning. Our Gladiators immediately took the lead thanks to an impressive goal by our Captain Castellani that made everyone gape. After a few minutes, the second JCU goal arrived with a powerful kick by Lanzafame, which hit the base of the opponents’ goalpost and then straight into the goal behind LCU goalkeeper’s shoulders.

LCU, however, was able to perform a reaction and towards the end of the first half scored back, but JCU was able to remain focused and kept playing well. The first half ended on the temporary result of 2-1 for JCU.

Giorgio Castellani’s (#9) goal

In the second half, LCU tried to tighten the clamps on our Gladiators, but JCU never lost the focus for a second. De Simone scored the third goal with an air-kick on Cattaneo‘s cross, and JCU increased again the score gap.

JCU held out against LCU during the entire game and was able to oppose their rivals for most of the second half even with only 10 players due to a red card to Lanzafame. In the extra time, LCU scored their second goal, but the final whistle put an end to the game with JCU victory, 3-2.

“We played a smart game with a professional attitude. Our players never fell to the opponents’ provocations, but they always reacted with fair competitiveness,” coach Concari pointed out. “We need to keep on this path because the objective of this semester is to get as higher as possible.”

Goalkeeper coach Marian continued, “This team proved that sacrifice always pays off. They all played a sensational game of a very high soccer level. It was not easy game. We faced a hard team that doesn’t allow any distraction. I am very satisfied, and I am impressed by our goalkeeper Maximilian. He’s a very humble player who has been working really well since the very first day. I am very proud of the work that we are doing together. Now comes the hard part, though – we need to give continuity to what has already been done.”

We also had the chance to interview our team Captain Giorgio Castellani and Goalkeeper Maximilian Loria at the end of the game. To find out what they say to our microphone, you can watch the full interview HERE!

JCU now stands in second place with 18 points. And only two points divide our Gladiators from LCU, which is the current top team in the ranking.

Congratulations, Gladiators! We are really proud of you! Last night, you were 11 Gladiators on the field who fought with great character, determination, technical and tactical skills. But more than ever, you really played as one, and that made the difference! Last night, you paved the way for what we expect could be the greatest Soccer Season of all time! So stay focused, keep working hard, and #GOGLADIATORS!

MVP – JCU Men’s Soccer Team

NEXT GAME:
JCU vs LSU | Wednesday, February 26 | 9:15pm | Trastevere Stadium