Ivetic Free Kick Lifts Purdue Northwest Past Northwood, 1-0

Purdue Northwest continued its perfect start to the 2026 men’s soccer season Sunday afternoon, defeating Northwood University 1-0 in the Pride’s home opener at Pepsi Field in Hammond.

After the two teams played through a scoreless first half, sophomore Nikola Ivetic delivered the difference for Purdue Northwest in the 65th minute.

Ivetic converted a free kick at the 64:15 mark, putting Purdue Northwest in front 1-0. The Pride defense took care of the rest, keeping Northwood off the scoreboard over the final 25 minutes to secure the victory.

Purdue Northwest controlled much of the offensive action, outshooting Northwood 9-2 for the match. The Pride put three shots on goal, while both of Northwood’s attempts were on target. PNW also held a 3-1 advantage in shots during the scoreless opening half.

Freshman goalkeeper Estefano Alvear went the full 90 minutes for Purdue Northwest and stopped both Northwood shots on goal. It marked Alvear and the Pride defense’s second consecutive clean sheet to begin the season. Northwood goalkeeper Jude Thomas finished with two saves.

The match was a physical one, with each team whistled for 14 fouls and a combined 11 yellow cards issued.

With the victory, Purdue Northwest improves to 2-0-0 on the season, while Northwood falls to 0-2-0. The Pride have yet to concede a goal through their first two matches of the 2026 campaign.

Purdue Northwest returns to the road Wednesday, September 2, when the Pride travel to Quincy University. Kickoff is scheduled for 11 a.m. Central Time in Quincy, Illinois.