LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Kentucky Wildcats (0-2-2) salvaged a draw against the Evansville Aces on Friday night at the Bell Soccer Complex, with freshman Thomas Berteotti scoring his first career goal in a 1-1 tie to equalize after the Purple Aces' early lead.

Evansville took an early advantage when forward Alejandro Fernandez scored in the 12th minute for his first goal of the season. Despite Kentucky dominating possession with a 10-3 edge in shots through the first half, the Wildcats could not find the back of the net before intermission.

Berteotti answered for Kentucky in the 74th minute off an assist from fellow freshman forward Costa Iliadis, keeping the match level with just over 15 minutes remaining. The Wildcats created several additional scoring opportunities late in regulation but could not break the tie, with the match ending 1-1.

Kentucky finished with an 18-12 advantage in total shots, though Evansville controlled a 4-3 edge in shots on goal. Freshman goalkeeper Benjamin Rassmussen recorded three crucial saves for the Wildcats, improving his season total to 11 saves.

The Wildcats, who claimed the Sun Belt Conference regular season title in 2025 under head coach Johan Cedergren, continue their homestand on September 8 against Ohio State at the Bell. Conference play begins September 18 when 15th-ranked Marshall visits Lexington.

Admission to all Kentucky men's soccer home matches is free to the public. For more information, visit UKAthletics.com.