York Lions Advance - Defeating Dalhousie Tigers 5-1

TORONTO, November 6 — In a commanding display of offensive firepower, the York Lions are through to the semifinals of the 2025 U SPORTS Men’s Soccer Championship after defeating the Dalhousie Tigers 5-1 in Thursday’s opening quarterfinal at Varsity Stadium. The Ontario finalists wasted no time asserting control, scoring twice within the first eight minutes. 2′ Christian Zeppieri opened the scoring with an unassisted strike that set the tone for the night. 7′ Ryan Robinson doubled the advantage just minutes later, leaving the Atlantic champions stunned. York continued to press relentlessly and were rewarded again before halftime when Zeppieri netted his second of the match in the 43rd minute, giving the Lions a decisive 3-0 lead going into half-time. The second half continued in York’s favor, as a Dalhousie own goal in the 63rd minute extended the Lions’ lead to 4–0. Defender James Fidalgo added a fifth just five minutes later, finishing a well-worked play assisted by Justin Cicchillo. Mykeo Christmas scored for Dalhousie in the 88th minute to bring the final score to 5–1, preventing a York shutout. Substitute Misha Lysenko was issued two yellow cards late in the match, resulting in his dismissal and leaving York with ten players for the final minutes. Dalhousie converted soon after to record their only goal of the game. What’s Next With the victory, York advances to Friday’s first semifinal, awaiting the winner of the second quarterfinal later today. Dalhousie will move into the consolation round, scheduled for Friday at 11 a.m. ET.