David Bascome’s Baltimore Blast have officially punched their ticket to the Major Arena Soccer League post-season following a dominant 10–4 victory over the Tacoma Stars.
The atmosphere inside the SECU Arena was electric as the Blast dismantled their Western Conference rivals in a high-scoring affair. Juan Pereira got the hosts off to a perfect start just three minutes in, though Tacoma proved resilient early on through strikes from Nani Mendoza and Ashkanov Apollon. Despite a brief lead for the Stars in the second period via Eddie Na, Baltimore’s clinical edge took over.
The third quarter proved to be the turning point, defined by a ruthless flurry of offensive pressure. After Wellington Bramusse restored the lead, Marco Nascimento netted twice in the space of ninety seconds to break the game open. Emmanuel Belliard and Patrick Thompson added further gloss to the scoreline in the final frame, ensuring Bascome’s side secured their play-off berth with several games to spare in the regular season.
Physical Stalemate for Khano Smith’s Rhode Island
Over in the USL Championship, Khano Smith oversaw a physical and high-intensity home opener as Rhode Island FC played out a 1–1 draw with expansion side Sporting Club Jacksonville. In what was the club’s long-awaited return to the Centreville Bank Stadium, Smith’s men dictated much of the tempo but found clear-cut chances hard to come by in a goalless first half.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 79th minute through a moment of inspired management. Logan Dorsey, introduced from the bench just four minutes earlier, marked his debut with his first career USL Championship goal to send the home support into raptures. However, the lead was short-lived as Jacksonville found a late equaliser to share the spoils, leaving Smith’s side with a point to build on as they embark on their 2026 campaign.
Nesbeth Confirmed in Chicago Stars Roster
Meanwhile, in the National Women's Soccer League, the Chicago Stars have officially confirmed their active roster for the 2026 season, with Bermudian standout Leilanni Nesbeth firmly established in the first-team setup.
Nesbeth is one of 25 players on the active roster as the Stars prepare to launch their title charge. Having impressed during her debut professional season, the versatile midfielder is expected to play a central role in Chicago’s tactical plans this year. The announcement marks another significant step for the St. David’s native, who remains the only Bermudian currently competing at the highest level of the American women’s professional game.
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