October 28, 2025

Waxahachie, TX — On an unforgettable Senior Night at the Lions Athletic Complex, the Nelson University men's soccer team capped off the regular season with a 3–1 win over the University of Science and Arts (Okla.) Tuesday evening. The match was filled with emotion, energy, and one highlight that will be talked about for years, a jaw-dropping 50-yard strike from Pascoal Manuel that sealed the victory and sent the home crowd into a frenzy

Nelson came out firing, setting a physical tone from the opening whistle. The Lions wasted no time asserting control when Pascoal Manuel opened the scoring in the 15th minute off a perfect assist from Sergio Lopez Garcia. The early strike energized the packed stands as the Lions fed off the Senior Night atmosphere.

Science & Arts responded ten minutes later to even the score, but Nelson didn't flinch. In the 27th minute, forward Teddy Nkamanyi reclaimed the lead, slotting home a goal assisted by Jafet Ramirez, sending the Lions into halftime up 2–1.

The second half was a battle of intensity and endurance, with Nelson's defense led by Javaughn Hines, David Ospina, and goalkeeper Amir Raime locking down the Drovers' attack. Raime finished the night with four saves, denying every late push from USAO.

Then, with the game winding down, Manuel produced the play of the night, and perhaps the season launching a long-range shot that soared through the night sky before dipping perfectly under the crossbar in the 89th minute. The goal ignited the crowd, and moments later, the final whistle sounded as fans and teammates poured onto the field in celebration.

Fans can see the play here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQYKtVJjckT/?igsh=ajM0d25nbmhwam8z

Final Stats
Nelson outshot USAO 19–12, controlled possession, and edged the Drovers 5–4 in corner kicks. 

Looking Ahead
With the victory, the Lions now turn their focus to the Sooner Athletic Conference Tournament, where they'll look to ride their momentum into another deep postseason run.

Nelson University (formerly SAGU) is a private Christian university, established in 1927 by P.C. Nelson. The University is located 30 minutes south of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex in Waxahachie, Texas, and offers more than 70 associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees on campus or online. For more information, visit www.nelson.edu or by calling 1-888-YES-NELSON.