OMAHA TRIUMPHS 8-7 IN SHOOTOUT VICTORY AGAINST CHICAGO: THE WEEK THAT WAS 12/18

Saturday’s showdown unfolded with fervor on both ends of the field.

Ramon Orozco, with a free kick, secured the first goal for the Mustangs, but Leonides Mejia swiftly answered for the Kings, leveling the score at 1-1. Nestor Dominguez of the Mustangs seized an open lane, adding another goal to put Chicago ahead 2-1 by the end of the first quarter.

The Kings dominated the second quarter, with Bernardo Torres converting a pass from Morgan Penn. Despite Omaha's efforts to equalize, the Mustangs reclaimed the lead, making it 3-2. Omaha, however, persevered and managed to tie the score at 3-3. Daniel Zuckweiler showcased ball control, propelling Omaha to a 4-3 lead with his first goal of the night. Michael Marchionna of the Mustangs found the net, and the second quarter concluded with a 4-4 deadlock.

As the quarter wound down, Gabriel Jurado and Christopher Coria combined forces, propelling the Mustangs to a 5-4 lead at halftime.

The third quarter maintained a tight contest, marked by Manuel Lira's goal for Omaha, equalizing the score at 5-5. Mejia struck again for the Kings, giving Omaha a 6-5 advantage. Mejia completed a hat trick, extending the Kings' lead to 7-5.

In a dramatic turn, the Mustangs shifted momentum in the fourth quarter, with Orozco scoring after a Power Play. Stevie Siy of the Kings received a blue card, and Dominguez capitalized, tying the game at 7-7 with a free kick and 7 minutes left on the clock.

Tied at 7-7, the game entered a 10-minute overtime period with both teams showcasing outstanding defensive skills, preventing any goals. Subsequently, a shootout ensued. Omaha initiated with a shot, but Zuckweiler's attempt was unsuccessful. Mustangs' Jurado took the second shot, also missing. Mejia, however, secured a goal for the Kings.

Omaha's defense held firm during the shootout, securing an 8-7 victory over Chicago in their home opener.