The University of Kentucky Women’s Soccer team is back in the national spotlight after a heart-pounding victory over 12-seed West Virginia in the NCAA Tournament's opening round Friday night.
The Wildcats, seeded fifth, triumphed 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 tie through double overtime. This win marks Kentucky’s first NCAA Tournament victory in a decade, 2014; what a way to do it for Troy Fabiano and his squad.
Game Recap: Drama from Start to Finish
West Virginia struck first in the 52nd minute, putting the Wildcats in an early second-half hole after playing the whole first half tied at 0. However, Kentucky wasted no time responding, with Maddie Kemp equalizing just two minutes later in the 54th minute. Kemp’s goal, a composed finish under pressure, electrified the Kentucky faithful in the stands and set the tone for a fierce battle through the remaining minutes and two overtime periods.
Kentucky goalkeeper Marz Josephson played the hero in regulation and extra time, tallying seven crucial saves to keep the Wildcats alive. Her composure under relentless pressure was pivotal in forcing the game into a penalty shootout, allowing the Cats to capitalize.
Penalty Perfection
In the shootout, Kentucky showcased nerves of steel with a perfect 4-for-4 performance from the spot. Sophia Mattice sealed the victory with the game-winning penalty, a clinical strike that sent the Wildcats into the second round. West Virginia converted two penalties but missed another, with Josephson’s presence proving daunting.
WE'RE STILL DANCING 💃💃💃 pic.twitter.com/P2TObYGe3a
— Kentucky Women's Soccer (@UKWomensSoccer) November 16, 2024
Looking Ahead
Kentucky now turns its attention to 4-seed Notre Dame, a formidable opponent with a storied history in women’s soccer. But this Kentucky team is playing with house money, brimming with resilience and momentum, and ready for the challenge.
Coach Fabiano’s leadership has revitalized the program just 3 years after being hired, and the Wildcats have their sights set on extending their tournament run. We will update here once Kentucky-Notre Dame's game time and date have been released.