After a thrilling win in the opening round of the NCAA tournament, the 5-seed Kentucky women’s soccer team (11-4-5) advanced to face 4-seed Notre Dame (12-3-4) in the second round. The match will take place in Starkville, Mississippi. This game promises a clash of styles.
Notre Dame boasts a potent offense, having scored an impressive 50 goals this season. Freshman sensation Izzy Engle is leading the charge for the Irish, who has tallied 17 goals. On the defensive side, Notre Dame has been solid as well, conceding only 17 goals all season.
Kentucky will counter with a stingy defense and an opportunistic attack. The Wildcats are led by Makala Woods, who has found the back of the net 11 times. While Kentucky has scored a modest 31 goals, their defense has been a cornerstone of success, allowing just 14 goals this year. The Wildcats will aim to neutralize Notre Dame’s high-powered offense with patient defending.
Meanwhile, the Irish’s Grace Restovich, who leads her team with 10 assists, will work to push the tempo. Whichever team can dictate the pace of play will have a strong chance of advancing.
Notre Dame averages 20 shots per game compared to Kentucky’s 14, and the Irish’s aggressive approach has helped them earn 12 shutouts in 19 matches.
Conversely, Kentucky’s patient style thrives on disciplined defending and quick counterattacks. If Notre Dame commits too many players forward, the Wildcats could capitalize with a decisive counter.
The game will be broadcast on ESPN+, you can follow along live by clicking here. If you have yet to subscribe or set up ESPN+ you can learn how to by clicking here.
Who will advance to the Sweet 16? Tune in on Friday to find out.
Full game information:
- NCAA Second Round
- 5 seed Kentucky Wildcats vs 4 seed Notre Dame Irish NCAA Second Round
- Location: Starkville, Mississippi
- Date: Friday November 22nd
- Kick-off time: 3:30 PM
- Television Coverage: Streaming only on ESPN+