Photo Credit – Elaina Ellis @elainaellis
NORFOLK, VA. — Virginia Atlantic FC made a strong statement in its home opener on Saturday, May 23, defeating 2025 NPSL National Semifinalist Ristozi FC, 3-1, at Powhatan Stadium in Norfolk, Virginia.
In front of the home crowd, Virginia Atlantic came out with energy and purpose, setting the tone early against one of the league’s most respected opponents. The breakthrough came in the 27th minute when Gabe Zarate found the back of the net to give VAFC a 1-0 lead.
Just three minutes later, Zarate was involved again, this time setting up Ethan Fisher for a goal in the 30th minute to double the advantage. The quick pair of first-half goals gave Virginia Atlantic control of the match and highlighted the team’s attacking quality in the final third.
Ristozi FC responded just before halftime, with Yohsuke Ono scoring in the 45th minute to cut the deficit to 2-1 heading into the break. Despite the momentum shift, Virginia Atlantic remained composed in the second half and continued to manage the match well.
In the 71st minute, VAFC restored its two-goal cushion when Jonas Griesbauer finished off an assist from Noah Kaiser, putting the home side ahead 3-1 and helping seal the result.
Zarate was named Player of the Match after an impressive performance that included one goal and one assist.
“This is a new team from years past,” said Virginia Atlantic FC head coach João Downs. “The energy is different in everything we do — from training to media day, to the way the guys compete on matchday. Tonight was a great result against a very strong opponent, but this is only the beginning for this group.”
The victory marks an important early season result for Virginia Atlantic FC as the club looks to build momentum in NPSL play.