#3 Bergen Men’s Soccer Advances to NJCAA National Semifinals with 3–1 Win Over Northern Essex

HERKIMER, N.Y. – The No. 3 seed Bergen Community College men's soccer team continued its impressive postseason run with a 3–1 victory over Northern Essex Community College in the NJCAA Division III Men's Soccer Championship quarterfinals on Wednesday evening. With the win, the Bulldogs (15–3–1) advance to the national semifinals where they will face No. 2 seed Mohawk Valley Community College on Friday, November 14 at 6:30 p.m.

After conceding the game's opening goal in the 13th minute, Bergen responded quickly when Gianfranco Appezzato netted the equalizer less than two minutes later to make it 1–1. The Bulldogs took control in the second half as Onur Can scored the go-ahead goal in the 73rd minute, followed by an insurance tally from Samuel Chevere in the 79th minute to seal the 3–1 win.

Goalkeeper Dror Cohen anchored the Bergen defense, recording five saves and improving his record to 13–1 on the season. The Bulldogs outshot Northern Essex 17–9 and held a 9–3 advantage in corner kicks, showcasing their attacking dominance throughout the match.

"This team has shown tremendous resilience and focus all year," said Head Coach Jonathan Sanchez. "We knew the national stage would test us, and I'm proud of how the players rose to the occasion."

With the victory, Bergen earns its first-ever appearance in the NJCAA Division III Men's Soccer Championship semifinals, continuing a historic season for the program.

The Bulldogs will face #2 Mohawk Valley Community College on Friday, November 14 at 6:30 p.m., with a trip to the national championship game on the line.