SCOUTING REPORT: VCU men’s soccer vs. Dayton

VCU men’s soccer will face the University of Dayton at Sports Backers Stadium for an Atlantic 10 matchup on Saturday, Sept. 20 at 7 p.m. 

The CT sports staff chose their notable players for the matchup.

VCU

Alexis Washington, Assistant Sports Editor 

Mohammed Ibrahim — The second-year midfielder is a proven dominant threat on offense. Ibrahim contributed to a huge victory against No. 2 Clemson University on Sept. 9, scoring the winning goal. He is already becoming a household name, playing in all 17 matches in his first year, according to VCU Athletics. He was also named to the A-10 All Rookie Team and led all rookies with 667 minutes of playing time throughout the season. Ibrahim is not afraid of getting to the net, as his nine shots on goal tied him for second on the team in the category during his first year. With Ibrahim’s shooting and speed, Dayton does not stand a chance.

Jenny Allen, Staff Writer 

Andrey Salmeron — VCU’s third-year midfielder is one of only four Rams to start all 17 games in the 2024 season, according to VCU Athletics. He led VCU in the past season with 38 shots and 15 on goal. In the recent upset victory over undefeated No. 2 Clemson, Salmeron scored the game’s first goal. Salmeron’s effective attacking ability will require smart defense from Dayton to prevent his goal-scoring opportunities. VCU’s offense collaborates well, and Salermon plays a large role in that. In order to come out on top against the Flyers, Salmeron must bring his leadership and skills.

Dayton

Daniel Pointer, Contributing Writer 

Ethan Sassine — Dayton’s redshirt fourth-year forward will be one of the biggest impact players in the matchup with VCU. Sassine brings experience and leadership to the field as he played in all 16 games last season. He has come out flying this year, already taking an aggressive 15 shots through five games, according to the Dayton Flyers. While Sassine may not light up the stat sheet every week, there is an upside to his game, and shutting him down needs to be a part of VCU’s defensive gameplan. 

Saanvi Vootla, Contributing Writer

Martin Bakken — The third-year midfielder has emerged as one of Dayton’s most dangerous offensive weapons. He started in all 20 matches last season, led the team with nine goals and 10 assists and earned multiple conference and regional honors. Bakken is a three-time A-10 Offensive Player of the Week and made A-10 All-Conference First Team, according to the Dayton Flyers. Bakken does not just score — he sets up his teammates by frequently racking up assists, making him an offensive force that VCU should look out for. Bakken’s leadership, experience and versatility on the field create a performance level that will be difficult to beat. Shutting him down or limiting his attack will be essential for VCU to emerge victorious.