The California State University, East Bay Pioneers mens soccer team fell 3-2 to the Vanguard Lions at VU Soccer Field in Costa Mesa, California, on September 12, 2026. Despite holding a second-half lead, the Pioneers were overtaken by two late goals in the final 10 minutes of the match.
Vanguard took an early lead in the fourth minute when Xavier Alcantar scored. Cal State East Bay equalized in the 33rd minute with a penalty kick converted by Jefferson Parada after Noel Cabrales struck the woodwork moments earlier. The teams went into halftime tied 1-1, with goalkeeper Adan Corona making three saves in the first half.
In the second half, Julian Valle scored his first goal of the season in the 77th minute to put Cal State East Bay ahead 2-1. However, Vanguard quickly responded with a penalty kick goal by Alcantar in the 82nd minute to level the score again. Jordan Le then scored the game-winning goal for Vanguard in the 89th minute.
The Pioneers finished the match with nine shots, three on goal, while Vanguard had 19 shots with nine on target. Corona played all 90 minutes and made six saves. Valle had two shots in the game, and Parada registered his third goal of the season on his only attempt.
CSB Take
The California State University, East Bay Pioneers mens soccer team showed resilience by rallying to take the lead in a closely contested match but were unable to hold off a late surge from Vanguard. The late collapse underscores the need for the Pioneers to maintain defensive concentration in critical moments. As the season progresses in the California Collegiate Athletic Association, the team will look to improve finishing and closing out tight contests to earn their first win.
Source: Original report
