LIVINGSTON, Ala. – The University of West Alabama men's soccer team is set to kick off the 2025 season on the road this week with two challenging nonconference matchups in Florida. The Tigers open against Palm Beach Atlantic on Thursday, Sept. 4, at 6 p.m. EST before facing national powerhouse Lynn University on Saturday, Sept. 6, at 11 a.m.
The Tigers enter the new season looking to build off a 2024 campaign that saw them finish 5-7-3, just shy of the Gulf South Conference tournament. With a strong group of returners and an influx of new talent, UWA aims to climb the standings in one of the nation's toughest conferences.
Returners to Watch
Leading the Tigers' attack is David Nunez, who paced the team last season with six goals, four assists, and 16 total points. Fellow returners Aiden Riley (3 goals), Ronny Wakelin (1 goal, 2 assists), Harrison Page (1 goal), and Alfie Tucker (1 goal) also bring valuable experience to the attack and midfield.
New Faces in Key Roles
The Tigers will also lean on several newcomers this fall. Charlie Walker (Whitstable, U.K. / Coker University) joins as an experienced goalkeeper after starting 14 matches in 2024. Defenders Daniel Christensen (Philippines / Northwood University) and Oisin Griffin (Ireland) are expected to bolster UWA's back line with size, leadership, and versatility.
Scouting the Opponents
Palm Beach Atlantic (6-6-3 in 2024) returns goalkeeper Omar Einarsson, who posted a .739 save percentage last season, and striker Tin Vastic, who tallied four goals and two assists. The Sailfish averaged 1.87 goals per match last season while outshooting opponents 161-191.
Saturday's match presents an even tougher test as UWA faces a Lynn University team that finished 20-0-2 in 2024. The Fighting Knights were dominant on both sides of the ball, averaging 2.45 goals per game while holding opponents to just 0.59.
Standouts include midfielder Fabian Vyhnalek (6 goals, 13 assists) and goalkeeper Luca Clavero, who allowed only 13 goals in 22 matches while recording 12 shutouts.
What's at Stake
The two-match road trip will provide an early measuring stick for UWA, giving the Tigers the chance to test their rebuilt roster against regional competition and one of the nation's elite programs.
Kickoff from West Palm Beach is set for Thursday at 6 p.m. against Palm Beach Atlantic, followed by an 11 a.m. match Saturday at Lynn in Boca Raton.
