WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – The University of North Carolina men’s soccer team defeated Wake Forest 2-1 Saturday in its first match of the Carolina Cup, fueled by goals from newcomer Joschi Shelb and Bertil Rygaard Hansen.
Shelb, a sophomore midfielder who previously played at Rutgers University, scored the opening goal for the Tar Heels with a header, assisted by Abubaker Mayanja. He then turned provider, setting up Hansen for what proved to be the game-winning goal. Wake Forest responded with a goal of their own, but UNC held on for the victory.
The match also marked the debut of Alan Rutkowski in goal for North Carolina, taking over from long-time starter Andrew Cordes. Rutkowski made several key saves, demonstrating his ability to command the area and secure the win. Alongside Rutkowski, newcomers Myles Carson, Jonathan Luna Sabando, and Etienne Veillard also saw their first collegiate action.
According to TopDrawerSoccer, Shelb was ranked as the #86 national player prior to joining Rutgers. He finished the 2024 season at Saint Francis with 10 goals and eight assists, earning an All-NEC First Team selection.
Carolina will continue its spring schedule next Sunday, March 1st, hosting Duke at Finley Fields at 6 p.m.
