Sterling, Kan. – The SBU men's soccer team continued their strong start to the 2026 season Saturday afternoon, dominating Sterling College in an 8-0 road victory. This win was the largest opening game victory since the program restart, as they open up the year 1-0.
SBU wasted no time taking control as Thomas Ladetto found the back of the net just 55 seconds into the contest. His goal was what all young kids dream of, a perfect bicycle kick off a pass from Saphir Ould-Aïssa. Nathaniel Velasquez doubled the advantage with a penalty kick in the sixth minute before Ladetto struck again just over a minute later. Joe Wright added the fourth goal of the half in the 27th minute, sending the Bearcats into halftime with a commanding 4-0 advantage.
The Bearcats continued to control the match in the second half. Velasquez picked up his second goal of the day in the 62nd minute before Ladetto completed the hat trick in the 73rd. Wright added his second goal of the contest shortly after, while Luis Sanchez-Barbudo Cruz capped off the scoring in the 89th minute.
Ladetto led the SBU attack with three goals on five shots, while Velasquez and Wright each scored twice. Felipe Gilberti played a key role in creating opportunities, finishing the match with three assists. Wright and Saphir Ould-Aïssa also recorded assists in the victory.
Southwest Baptist controlled nearly every statistical category, out shooting Sterling 39-2 with a 22-1 advantage in shots on goal. The Bearcats also held a 7-1 advantage in corner kicks.
The SBU defense was equally impressive, allowing just two shots throughout the entire 90 minutes. Jan-Henry Schäfer recorded the Bearcats' lone save earning his four shutout in his SBU career tying the school record.
SBU men's soccer will return to action on Tuesday as they head down to Springfield, Missouri to take on Evangel University at 6:00 p.m.
