New Jersey College Women's Soccer Team Wins Historic First

A brand new women's soccer program just proved that comebacks aren't the only way to make history.

Kean University Jersey City's women's soccer team secured their first-ever collegiate victory Sunday in Selden, New York, defeating Suffolk County Community College 4-3 in a nail-biting finish. The win marks the Cougars' debut in the United States Collegiate Athletic Association.

The team came out strong in their historic first game. Beatriz Oliveira Dos Santos scored just five minutes in, followed by Gabriella Cardona's goal eight minutes later to give the Cougars a commanding 2-0 lead.

After halftime, Oliveira Dos Santos struck again with an assist from India Berman, pushing the advantage to 3-0. Everything looked secure for the new program.

Then Suffolk County mounted a fierce comeback. The Sharks scored three goals in just 20 minutes, tying the game 3-3 with 15 minutes left to play.

But Cardona wasn't done making history. Just one minute after Suffolk County's equalizer, she found the net for her second goal of the day, giving Kean Jersey City the 4-3 lead they would hold until the final whistle.

Why This Inspires

This victory represents more than just a win on the scoreboard. For a brand new program playing its very first official game, the team could have crumbled when their three-goal cushion disappeared.

Instead, they showed the resilience that defines great programs. Head Coach Anthony Tuesta praised his players for "fighting through adversity," exactly the mindset that will serve them well as they build their legacy.

The two goal scorers, Cardona and Oliveira Dos Santos, both juniors, demonstrated leadership when their team needed it most. Somaia Roman's assist added to a true team effort that gave Kean Jersey City something no one can ever take away: their first win.

Every program remembers its first victory, and this one will be especially sweet.