Akpan Strikes Again

In the past three months, sophomore Andre’ Akpan has played on the FIFA Under-20 U.S. National Team and been named to All-America teams by College Soccer News, Soccer America and MajorLeague Soccer Magazine.

He’s also been a major factor in the No. 9-ranked Crimson’s offense this season, notching two goals and one assist in last Saturday’s overwhelming 5-0 win over visiting Fairfield.

One might that Akpan’s numerous achievements would have gotten to his head. Think again.

“I try not to look into it too much,” Akpan said. “It’s nice to be recognized, but all the awards that I get are usually due to team effort.”

Indeed, Harvard’s team chemistry and Akpan’s talent are easily recognizable on the soccer field.

Saturday’s match-up, a solid team effort involving not only the usual starters but also the Crimson’s bench, saw five different players involved in scoring goals.

Throughout the game, Akpan wove in and out of the penalty box, creating plays and firing shots against a weakening Stags defense.

“As a player, I think of myself as a guy who can score goals consistently for the team and hold the ball up so my teammates can score and try to be creative on the ball,” Akpan said.

In the 71st minute against Fairfield, Akpan drilled in his first goal of the game. The ball was taken from the Stags in the midfield by co-captain Matt Hoff, who quickly threaded a pass to junior Mike Fucito. As the goalkeeper came out to meet him, Fucito sent the ball across the box to Akpan, who finished off the play.

Just six minutes later, Akpan again found the back of the net when he headed in a cross from sophomore Brian Grimm, bringing the final score to 5-0.

“He’s just a major threat and can hold the ball up when we need it,” Hoff said. “In and around the box he’s very dangerous. When he gets up there, teams are double and triple teaming him.”

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

Akpan has now scored goals in six consecutive games and is already leading the Ivy League in not only goals, but also assists.

“Andre’ is a player that can create his own chances and set up his teammates for others,” said coach John Kerr. “He has a keen awareness in and around the penalty box. He is a remarkable player.”

The possibilities for the future seem endless for last year’s Ivy League Rookie of the Year, who scored a hat trick in his first international appearance for the U.S.

“Playing pro soccer has always been a dream since I was a little kid,” Akpan said. “After I finish up at Harvard, it’s something I definitely want to do if I get the opportunity.”

Though just a sophomore, Akpan has combined with Fucito to lead the Crimson offense, which boasts the highest average number of goals per game at 2.22 and the highest shot percentage in the Ivy League.

Harvard has jumped to a 7-1-1 record and is set to begin league play this Saturday at Cornell.

“It’s a thrill,” Akpan said. “You’re always striving to play to perfection and a lot of times you don’t get there.”

Luckily for the Crimson, the sheer talent of a player like Akpan has helped the team along that path.

However, Akpan relies on more than just skill—his determination and passion for the game also fuel his performances.

“The desire to win, to win the Ivy League is pretty much what drives me,” Akpan said. “I love the team.”