FC Naples fights until the end, but falls 2-0 to Athletic Club Boise

Naples, Florida — September 5, 2026. FC Naples had to face a challenging night at Paradise Coast Sports Complex, marked by two interruptions due to bad weather, and although the team created several opportunities in the second half, Athletic Club Boise capitalized on their chances to win 2-0.

Despite the conditions and interruptions, FC Naples fans stayed with the team throughout the night, supporting the local squad as they continue their fight for a spot in the USL League One playoffs.

Boise strikes first

Athletic Club Boise opened the scoring in the 16th minute. Forward Nick Moon, number 14, found the back of the net to give the visitors a 1-0 lead.

FC Naples responded after halftime, quickly seeking an equalizer.

In the 49th minute, Marc Torrellas, number 21, was very close to leveling the match. His shot beat Boise's goalkeeper but hit the post, one of Naples' clearest chances during the game.

Just two minutes later, Boise struck again.

Denys Kostyshyn, number 10, scored in the 51st minute after receiving an assist from Blake Bodily, number 7, increasing the visitors' lead to 2-0.

Naples kept pushing

Despite the result, FC Naples continued pressing and seeking opportunities.

In the 54th minute, Christopher Garcia, number 11, was close to scoring with a spectacular attempt. Shortly after, Jaylen Yearwood, number 20, also created danger on the right flank with a cross that narrowly missed finding a teammate.

The team showed offensive intent during the second half but couldn't convert their chances into goals.

“We have to win these matches”

After the game, FC Naples head coach, Zak Gordon, emphasized that the team has recently shown it can compete and win against some of the league's best teams.

“We beat the best team in the league a week ago and played better than them. We have beaten AV Alta twice. We have shown that we can win matches against top teams and surpass teams in playoff positions”, Gordon said.

The coach acknowledged, however, that the team needs to better capitalize on its opportunities and avoid mistakes that can be punished at this level.

“We have to make sure to win these matches, see them through to the end, take advantage of our opportunities, and not give away easy goals. At the professional level, if we give easy chances, teams will punish us”, he added.

Lalo Delgado: “Every match is a final”

FC Naples captain and goalkeeper, Lalo Delgado, made it clear after the game that the team fully understands the importance of the upcoming weeks.

“We keep moving forward. Next Friday is a very important match and we have to win it. It’s a final. Every match from now on, and those already played, are finals”, Delgado affirmed.

The captain also wanted to thank the fans who stayed in the stands despite the rain and interruptions.

“As captain, I want to thank our fans, everyone, for the support. They were incredible from the beginning, during the rain and during the delay. All the support they showed was incredible. They have my heart. I love them very much. Big hugs and we keep moving forward”, he said.

Two key away matches

FC Naples will now continue its fight for the playoffs away from home.

The next match will be on Friday, September 11 at 7:00 p.m., when Naples visits One Knoxville SC.

Later, the team will travel to Indiana to face Fort Wayne FC on Saturday, September 19 at 7:30 p.m.

Both matches can be watched by fans through ESPN+.

Three consecutive home games

After their two away commitments, FC Naples will return to Paradise Coast Sports Complex to play three consecutive home games:

• Saturday, September 26 — FC Naples vs. Chattanooga Red Wolves SC — 7:00 p.m.
• Saturday, October 3 — FC Naples vs. New York Cosmos — 7:00 p.m.
• Wednesday, October 7 — FC Naples vs. Richmond Kickers — 7:00 p.m.

With the regular season approaching its decisive stage, every point will be important for FC Naples in its goal to stay in the playoff race.

The fight continues.

Photos: FC Naples