CHICAGO, Ill. — Chicago State men's soccer closed out its 2025 home slate with a hard-fought 0-0 draw against New Haven on Thursday evening at Gwendolyn Brooks College Prep. The Cougars delivered one of their most complete performances of the season, controlling possession and generating several quality chances in front of an energetic Senior Night crowd.
Before kickoff, Chicago State honored its five seniors —
Zephyn Brockert-Kress, Owen Santos, Johan Rodriguez Morales, Efrain Rivas, and
Hilary Odhiambo for their leadership and commitment to the program.
The Cougars owned a 56 percent edge in possession and matched the Chargers shot-for-shot with nine attempts apiece. Senior goalkeeper
Johan Rodriguez Morales anchored the defense with two key saves to record his first shutout of the season. Fellow senior
Hilary Odhiambo sparked the attack early with a shot on goal, while
Arafath Ouro-Gnao led all players with four attempts, including a pair that narrowly missed the frame.
Defensively,
Zephyn Brockert-Kress and
Efrain Rivas turned in strong efforts along the back line, keeping New Haven's offense in check and helping the Cougars post their first clean sheet of the campaign.
Head coach
Norris Howze praised his squad's effort and resilience in the season's home finale.
"I'm proud of the way our guys competed tonight," Howze said. "Our seniors have given so much to this program, and it was great to see them go out with a performance that reflects their hard work and growth."
The Cougars close out the regular season next week on the road as they continue to build momentum heading into the offseason.
