The Hope International Royals men’s soccer team salvaged a 1-1 tie against the Soka Lions in a GSAC matchup held on September 10, 2026, at OC Great Park in Irvine, California.
Soka took an early lead at 5:54 in the first half when Rudy Garcia dribbled from just past midfield into the box and scored inside the near post. The first half ended with the Lions leading 1-0, with both teams recording four shots each.
Hope International dominated the second half offensively, outshooting Soka 10-2 and holding a 14-6 shot advantage for the full game. In the final eight minutes, a foul by Soka’s Jake Davis on Hope International’s Ignacio Fonseca inside the 18-yard box awarded the Royals a penalty kick.
Vianni Martinez converted the penalty kick for his first career collegiate goal, tying the game at 1-1. Hope International goalkeeper Tyler Beehler made two saves, while Soka’s Jacob Warren recorded seven saves. In the closing seconds, Fonseca had a chance to win the match, but Warren made a critical save.
The draw improved Hope International’s record to 3-0-2 overall and 0-0-2 in GSAC play. Soka moved to 1-1-1 overall and 0-0-1 in conference play. The Royals are scheduled to play against Stanton on September 15 at 4:30 p.m. at OC Great Park Field #18.
CSB Take
Hope International’s ability to rally late and capitalize on a penalty kick to secure a point underscores the team’s resilience and growing cohesion. Vianni Martinez’s first collegiate goal marks an important milestone and adds confidence to their offensive capabilities. Maintaining this level of defensive effort and converting scoring opportunities will be crucial as the Royals continue their GSAC schedule.
Source: Original report
