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Florida International University Athletics: FIU Men’s Soccer Tops North Florida 2-0 Behind Sergio Perello and Owen Barnett

October 8, 2026 · Brian Hradsky
Florida International University Athletics: FIU Men’s Soccer Tops North Florida 2-0 Behind Sergio Perello and Owen Barnett featured image

FIU men’s soccer defeated North Florida 2-0 on Tuesday, Oct. 6, at Leyva Family Field at FIU Soccer Stadium. The victory was FIU’s third consecutive win and extended its home unbeaten streak to six matches.

Perello Gives FIU the Lead

Sergio Perello opened the scoring in the 24th minute with an assist from Matteo Piccardo. The goal was Perello’s first of the season and gave FIU a 1-0 advantage.

FIU continued to create chances during the opening half, with Martin Piedeleu leading the team with four shots. North Florida also generated attacking pressure, but FIU carried its one-goal lead into halftime.

Barnett Adds a Second Goal

Owen Barnett doubled FIU’s lead late in the match with an assist from Santi Possu. The goal was Barnett’s third of the season, while Possu recorded his first assist of the season.

The assist also extended Possu’s point streak to six consecutive matches. FIU held on for its third straight victory and remained unbeaten in its last six home matches.

Van Haveren Records Fifth Shutout

FIU finished with 13 shots, including six on goal, while North Florida recorded 12 shots, including five on goal. Piedeleu led FIU with four shots, including one on goal, and Jad Benjelloun put both of his attempts on goal.

Nigel Van Haveren played all 90 minutes and made a season-high five saves. The shutout was Van Haveren’s fifth of the season, matching his total from the previous season.

Up Next

FIU will host UAB on Sunday, Oct. 11, at 7 p.m. at Leyva Family Field at FIU Soccer Stadium. The match will be streamed live on ESPN+.

FSB Take

FIU men’s soccer combined two goals with a strong performance from Van Haveren to secure its third consecutive win. Perello opened the scoring, Barnett added the late insurance goal and Possu extended his point streak to six matches with his assist. The result also kept FIU unbeaten at home through six consecutive matches.


Source: Original report