Box Score MISHAWAKA, Ind. --- On Tuesday evening, the Bethel Pilots (14-2-2) defeated the Mount Vernon Nazarene Cougars (7-7-5) in the Crossroads League Quarterfinal on Morey Field.

The match remained scoreless through 110 minutes of play, despite Bethel's offensive dominance with 35 total shots (18 on goal), compared to just 2 shots (one on goal) for MVNU.

Goalkeeper Maarten Schouten recorded a clean sheet in regulation and extra time, before emerging in the penalty shootout with two crucial saves to secure the Pilot victory. 

Bethel went on to win the shootout 4-3, with successful penalties from Diego Rodriguez, Lucas Lima, Fernando Laserna, and Julian Vargas Talamantes.

Schouten's two saves proved decisive, sending the Pilots to the next round after showcasing composure and resilience under pressure.

Head Coach Thiago Pinto shared, "Couldn't have scripted a game like this...proud of the way the team stayed connected and never gave up all the way through the win in a shootout...this could serve us good in other challenges ahead...to help know what it takes to find success in a one off tournament game."

With the win, the Pilots will advance to the Crossroads League Semifinal on Friday, Nov. 7, which they will host on Morey Field. Kickoff is set for 5 PM against the Spring Arbor University Cougars. 

The Cougars now rank fifth in the Crossroads League following their 1-0 defeat over the University of Saint Francis on Tuesday evening.

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