MACOMB, IL – Western Illinois men's soccer saw its 2025 season come to an end on Saturday afternoon, falling 2–0 to SIUE in the Ohio Valley Conference Quarterfinals at Harlen C. Hunter Stadium.
The Leathernecks fought hard but couldn't overcome an early deficit. SIUE opened the scoring in the 11th minute when Ethan Hackenberg converted a pass from Mathias Clausen to make it 1–0. Hackenberg later added his second goal of the match in the 57th minute on a penalty kick, giving the Cougars a 2–0 advantage that held through full time.
Western Illinois generated several quality looks in the second half, outshooting SIUE 6–3 after the break, but the Cougars' defense held firm. Xavier Gagnon led the Leathernecks with three shots, one on target, while goalkeeper Micah Ramirez recorded two saves in the match.
The defeat ends the Leathernecks season, but the team displayed consistent growth and determination throughout the fall. Western Illinois secured its place in the OVC Tournament with an impressive regular-season victory over top-seeded Lindenwood before ultimately falling in today's quarterfinals.
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