The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa football team kicked off their 2025 season with a thrilling 23-20 victory over Stanford on August 23. The game, held at the Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex, featured a standout performance from kicker Kansei Matsuzawa. He nailed two crucial field goals late in the fourth quarter, including a dramatic 38-yarder as time expired.
Quarterback Micah Alejado, in just his second start, threw two touchdown passes to rally the team from an early 10-point deficit. He showed determination, returning to the game after a tough hit in the third quarter to guide the Warriors on both the tying and winning drives. Alejado completed 27 of 39 passes for 210 yards, and his ability to lead under pressure was critical for the team’s success.
The game wasn’t without its tense moments. With UH trailing 20-17, safety Kilinahe Mendiola-Jensen made a pivotal interception that shifted the momentum back to UH, allowing Matsuzawa to tie the game with just over two minutes left.
Alejado’s key targets included Pofele Ashlock and Jackson Harris, who each caught a touchdown pass. Ashlock recorded nine catches for 69 yards, while Harris added six receptions for 59 yards. Their chemistry on the field has been a bright spot for the offense this season.
This victory marked UH’s first win over Stanford in five tries and another significant win over a power conference opponent since 2019. According to some experts, strong performances like this can boost team confidence and set a positive tone for the season. Sports analyst Jamie Johnson noted, “Winning against a major opponent is a huge morale booster. It can impact the whole season.”
The Warriors are set for their first road game of the season against Arizona on August 30. In their last matchup in 2019, they secured a narrow 45-38 victory, also decided in the closing moments. This year’s game promises to be another exciting challenge as they aim to build on their strong start.
For more updates on the season, you can check out the UH Mānoa Athletics website.
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