USF Bulls Secure #3 Seed in American Conference Playoffs with Thrilling 4-3 Victory Over Memphis
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The University of South Florida men’s soccer team clinched the #3 seed in the American Conference playoffs after a dramatic 4-3 win over Memphis on November 2, 2025, at the Billy J. Murphy Track & Soccer Complex. The victory caps off a successful regular season for the Bulls, who finished with a record of 9-2-5 (5-2-1 in conference play).
Bulls Dominate Early, Face Memphis Resilience
South Florida came out aggressively, creating several scoring opportunities in the opening minutes. Despite early pressure from Memphis, goalkeeper Jahiem Wickham proved stalwart in net. The Bulls broke the deadlock in the 9th minute when Brandon Nyagurungo found the back of the net, assisted by João Belmudes and Fabio Bozesan. However, Memphis responded, leveling the score before halftime, sending the teams into the break tied 1-1.
Second-Half Surge Secures Playoff Positioning
The Bulls reasserted their dominance in the second half. Nyagurungo scored his second goal of the night in the 66th minute, this time assisted by Tyler Richardson, reclaiming the lead for USF. Asher Jones quickly extended the advantage to 3-1, capitalizing on an assist from Nyagurungo. Memphis mounted a spirited comeback, briefly tying the game at 3-3, but the Bulls refused to yield. With just minutes remaining, Fabio Bozesan delivered the decisive blow, scoring the game-winning goal in the 89th minute, assisted by Pedro Fife, sealing the 4-3 victory.
Nyagurungo Leads the Way, Bulls Prepare for Tulsa
Brandon Nyagurungo was the standout performer for South Florida, contributing two goals, one assist, and three shots on goal. Jahiem Wickham also delivered a crucial performance, recording eight saves throughout the match.
Here’s a look at the key performers for the Bulls:
- #11 Brandon Nyagurungo: Two goals, one assist, three shots, three shots on goal.
Our first of the night – Nyagrungo’s fifth of the season - #30 Jahiem Wickham: Eight saves.
And that’s three - #7 Asher Jones: One goal, four shots, two shots on goal.
Makes it look easy - #9 Fabio Bozesan: One goal, one assist, three shots, two shots on goal.
The Bulls’ victory secures their position as the No. 3 seed in the American Conference Championship. They will now face the No. 6 seed, Tulsa, in the first round of the playoffs on Friday, November 7, with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. ET at Corbett Stadium. Fans can purchase tickets by calling 1-800-GoBulls or visiting USFBullsTix.com.
A Legacy of Success
USF Men’s Soccer boasts a rich history, dating back to its first intercollegiate contest in 1965. The program has since claimed 14 conference championships and made 22 NCAA Tournament appearances, including three Elite Eight runs. The Bulls have also consistently produced talent for the professional ranks, with 30 MLS draft picks and notable alumni including two-time MLS Golden Boot winner Jeff Cunningham, 1994 World Cup veteran Roy Wegerle, and 2013 MLS Cup champion Dom Dwyer. The program’s success is further reflected in the USF Athletics Hall of Fame, which includes three alumni – Fergus Hopper, Jeff Attinella, and Jeff Cunningham – and a coach, Dan Holcomb.
– #GoBulls –
