The Highline men’s soccer team secured an important victory against Bellevue in the NWAC quarterfinals, triumphing 2-1 in overtime. The match was nothing short of intense, with an own goal scored from Bellevue, a late equalizer, and a game-winning goal in overtime.

The first half of the match was very close, with both teams struggling to find the back of the net. Highline managed to create some chances, with five shots on goal, but could not break through the Bellevue defense. The half ended in a 0-0 tie, with neither team able to impose dominance.

The second half saw a Bellevue own goal, giving Highline a 1-0 lead. But Bellevue was determined to fight back and they tied it in the 88th minute, setting the stage for a dramatic overtime showdown.

In extra time, the hero of the match emerged: Dugsiye Ahmed. He scored the winning goal in the 100th minute, securing Highline’s spot in the NWAC semifinals.

We caught up with the team’s captain, Kody Carmel, who shared his thoughts on the thrilling victory and their upcoming semifinal matchup.

After an iconic goal in overtime, Carmel described the scene: “All I remember from that moment when Dugsiye scored the game-winning PK was everyone running from the bench and getting stampeded by all of our teammates as we were celebrating the moment. Everyone was smiling and grateful that we put in the effort to lock in on the win.”

Reflecting on their playoff success, Carmel emphasized the importance of preparation and mindset. “I think the key to winning playoff games for us specifically is being prepared to do whatever it takes to win the game,” Carmel said. “Luck benefits the prepared, and if we are prepared, then we won’t lose. The mindset ties into being prepared to do what we need to do to win.”

Carmel also revealed the coach’s message during the pivotal overtime break: “What I remember from our talk with Coach Steve at the overtime break was just to leave everything we had on the field and play our game to the very end. He made note of how every time we play the way we know how to, we win games, and when we don’t, we struggle.”

When asked about their upcoming semifinal against Rogue Community College, Carmel expressed confidence in his team’s abilities. “My expectation for our upcoming semifinal only really falls on our own team. I expect every single one of us to put in every ounce of effort we have to prolong our season as much as possible,” Carmel said. 

“I personally don’t want to go out on a loss, and the only way to do that is to win it all!” Carmel continued. “Rogue is definitely the best team from the South division, but like you mentioned, we beat them before, and we can beat them again. It will definitely be a different battle than it was before, as much more is on the line, but I have full faith in every single one of our players to make it through to Sunday.”

Highline will face Rogue Community College in the NWAC semifinals. Rogue, ranked first in the NWAC South Region, comes into this matchup with a solid season record of 13-3-1 and a league record of 12-2-0. Highline previously defeated Rogue 2-0 during the regular season and are eager to replicate their success in the high-stakes semifinal matchup.

The stage is set for an exciting and competitive match as Highline looks to continue its journey to NWAC glory. Soccer fans, mark your calendars for Friday’s semifinal game (Nov. 10 at 11 a.m.) and get ready to cheer on our Highline men’s soccer team as they battle for a spot in the championship game.