Box Score Peoria, IL -- The Bradley Braves earned win number one in 2025 and defended home field as they defeated the Milwaukee Panthers 1-0.
The Bradley Braves faced off against the Milwaukee Panthers at Shea Stadium in Peoria, IL, with both teams searching for their first win of the 2025 season. Bradley controlled much of the possession in the first half, generating 10 total shots, with DJ Koulai and Ian Ferguson accounting for all three of Bradley's shots on goal. Milwaukee created several opportunities on the counterattack, tallying seven total shots in the first half, including three on target.
In terms of goalkeeping, both keepers were sharp in the opening half. Bradley's Drew Berry and Milwaukee's Nic Diana each recorded three saves to preserve a scoreless half, highlighted by a strong kick save from Berry near the end of the period.
Neither team found the back of the net in the first 45 minutes, resulting in a 0-0 scoreline at halftime.
As the second half got underway, the Braves once again controlled much of the possession, immediately putting pressure on the Panthers' back line. This pressure eventually led to a great initial chance by DJ Koulai, whose shot was blocked. However, teammate Nökkvi Hjörvarsson chased down the rebound, quickly turned, fired, and scored, giving the Braves a 1-0 lead and earning his first collegiate goal in the process.
Milwaukee responded by generating six quick chances over the next 15 minutes and change. Bienvenu Djunga led the comeback effort for the Panthers, recording five shots—two of which were on goal—but Bradley goalkeeper Drew Berry continued his strong performance.
Berry finished with 11 saves, just two shy of his career high, which he set as a freshman back in 2022. His most impressive stop came with just two minutes remaining, when Milwaukee's Fernando Pirry attempted a bicycle kick in the penalty area off a headed pass. Berry reacted quickly, pushing the shot aside to preserve the lead.
The Panthers wouldn't come any closer than Pirry's attempt in the 88th minute. As time wound down, the Braves managed to push the ball forward and drain the remaining clock, securing their first win of the 2025 season.
The win moves Bradley to 1-1-1 on the season, while Milwaukee drops to 0-2-1. The Braves will hit the road for two straight games, facing longtime rival Western Illinois on September 3 and Purdue Fort Wayne on September 7.
Milwaukee will turn its focus to a three-game homestand, beginning with Eastern Illinois on September 5, followed by matchups against Chicago State on September 9 and Cleveland State on September 13.
