York Advance to National Final with 2–0 Win Over Montreal

TORONTO, November 7 — Playing a man down for the entire second half, the York Lions delivered a resilient performance to defeat the Montreal Carabins 2–0 in Friday’s first semifinal of the 2025 U SPORTS Men’s Soccer Championship at Varsity Stadium. York took the lead in the 16th minute when Christian Zeppieri converted a penalty kick, calmly slotting home to give the Lions a 1–0 advantage. Despite heavy pressure from the RSEQ champions, York’s defensive structure and goalkeeper Michael Williams stood firm, turning away several close-range chances — including multiple saves against Montreal’s Calin Calaidjoglu. The intensity grew as the first half progressed, with several cautions issued to both benches and York’s sideline receiving multiple cards late in the half. Still, the Lions entered the break protecting their narrow lead. Montreal opened the second half aggressively, but York doubled their lead in the 56th minute when a deflected ball off a Montreal defender resulted in an own goal, extending the Yorks lead to 2–0. In the 71st minute- Dante Carraro was shown a straight red card, reducing York to ten players. Despite the disadvantage, York’s back line — anchored by Matthew Medeiros, Gianluca Condello, and goalkeeper Michael Williams — held firm against continuous pressure. Williams finished with nine saves, earning a well-deserved clean sheet. Montreal recorded 17 shots, including six from Calaidjoglu, but could not find a way past Williams as the Carabins’ attack was repeatedly denied. Looking Ahead With the victory, York advances to the U SPORTS national championship final on Sunday afternoon, where they will face the winner of the second semifinal. Montreal will compete in the bronze medal match earlier that same day.