Minnesota Upsets South Carolina in NCAA Women’s Soccer Championship
In an exhilarating showdown, No. 6 Minnesota triumphed over No. 3 South Carolina with a 2-1 victory in the second round of the NCAA Women’s Soccer Championships, marking the Golden Gophers’ first Sweet 16 appearance in 14 years. With this win, Minnesota improves its record to 14-4-3 (6-3-2 B1G), while South Carolina concludes its season at 11-4-7 (5-2-3 SEC).
The match began with an early goal from South Carolina’s Katie Shea Collins just nine minutes in, assisted by Corinna Zullo, giving the Gamecocks a 1-0 lead at halftime. However, the second half saw a resurgent Minnesota as they turned the tide of the game.
In the 57th minute, senior Khyah Harper drew a critical foul in the penalty area. Graduate Sophia Boman converted the ensuing penalty kick, leveling the score at 1-1. Minnesota, having gained momentum, increased its pressure on the Gamecocks, dominating in shots with 16 to South Carolina’s 15 and a notable eight shots on goal compared to the Gamecocks’ two.
With just 20 minutes left on the clock, graduate Sophia Romine seized a moment of opportunity, netting an unassisted shot from 20 yards out to secure the game-winning goal for the Gophers.
This victory marks head coach Erin Chastain’s second NCAA Tournament win, extending her coaching legacy with the furthest advancement in her career. Minnesota is set to face either No. 2 North Carolina or Santa Clara in the next round on Sunday at 4 p.m. CT.
Minnesota’s remarkable comeback not only reflects their tenacity but also cements their place in NCAA history as they look forward to their next challenge.
Information and photo courtesy of Gopher Sports.
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Photo credit minnesotanewsnetwork.com
