DES MOINES, IOWA – In a fiercely contested and emotionally charged match, the Grand View Men's Soccer team fought back from a halftime deficit to earn a hard-fought 2-2 draw against MidAmerica Nazarene University in tonight's Heart of America Game of the Week. The second half was a rollercoaster of high-intensity play, showcasing both teams' resilience, determination, and offensive sparks in a game that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
The first half was a tight, defensive battle, with MidAmerica Nazarene taking an early lead in the 31st minute. Antonio Mugica scored assisted by David Stoklasek, giving the Pioneers an advantage heading into halftime. The Vikings responded with grit coming out of the break, and the second half exploded with energy, intensity, and multiple scoring chances.
Early in the second half, MidAmerica Nazarene extended their lead with a second goal in the 59th minute from Jeremie Pelade, assisted by Gil Brown. But Grand View refused to back down, mounting a strong response. Ignacio Gonzalez scored in the 61st minute, assisted by Pietro Piacenza and Justin Figaroa, igniting the Vikings' offense. Just moments later, Piacenza struck in the 64th minute, assisted by Justin Figaroa, leveling the score and setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
The final 30 minutes saw relentless back-and-forth action, with both teams pushing hard for the game-winner amid near misses, blocked shots, and intense physicality. The game was marked by fierce fouls and four yellow cards, two on each side, emphasizing the high stakes and emotional nature of the match.
Despite several late chances for both teams, neither side could find the net again, resulting in a dramatic 2-2 draw. Grand View's goalkeeper Luis Helm made numerous crucial saves, especially in the frantic closing minutes, to preserve the tie in a game that truly lived up to its Heart of America Game of the Week billing.

MATCH NOTES
- MidAmerica Nazarene opened the scoring in the 31st minute with Antonio Mugica, assisted by David Stoklasek. Then extended their lead in the 59th minute through Jeremie Pelade, assisted by Gil Brown.
- Grand View answered with goals in the 61st minute from Ignacio Gonzalez and the 64th minute from Pietro Piacenza.
- The second half was an intense, high-energy battle with numerous scoring opportunities and physical plays.
- Goalkeeper Luis Helm had a solid day with 8 crucial saves.
- Grand View's offense had 8 of the 14 shots on goal.

UP NEXT
The Grand View Men's Soccer team will look to add to the win column in their next game against Central Methodist University (Mo.) in Fayette, MO. Kickoff is set to start at 1:00 PM next Saturday, October 4^th.