The Zips entered FirstEnergy Stadium on August 28 with a No. 6/10 ranking and a season‑long hunger for a breakthrough. What unfolded was a gritty, physical contest that saw Akron dominate possession and create chances, but it was a single moment of brilliance that ultimately decided the match.
In the 84th minute, sophomore forward Noa Testa found the net with a precise strike that curled past the Wake Forest keeper, delivering the game‑winning goal and marking his first collegiate tally. The goal sparked a roar from the 2,260 fans in attendance and secured Akron’s first win of the campaign.
Akron’s control was evident throughout, out‑shooting Wake Forest 17‑9 overall and 6‑1 on target. The Zips held the ball for 62 percent of the game, dictating tempo and limiting the Demon Deacons to just nine attempts on goal.
Between the posts, goalkeeper Brett Kaminski turned in a clean sheet, making one save from the nine shots he faced. His composure under pressure preserved the narrow lead and earned the team a valuable shutout.
Road Trip to Morgantown
Next up, the Zips travel to Morgantown, West Virginia, for a 7 p.m. showdown on September 3. The game marks Akron’s first road test of the season and offers a fresh opportunity to translate early success into momentum.