The Panthers women’s soccer team surprised many by defeating No. 1 Notre Dame at Ambrose Urbanic Field last week, securing a decisive win with a late goal at the 85th minute.
Senior forward Margaret Wilde took a corner kick late in the match, allowing junior defender Mya Archibald to head the ball cleanly inside the left post, giving Pitt the lead they held until the final whistle.
Junior goalkeeper Abby Reisz played one of her best games this season, making six crucial saves, including an important stop in the first half that halted Notre Dame’s early surge. Pitt's defense, led by junior captain Olivia Lee, stayed organized and compact, effectively shutting down Notre Dame’s potent offense.
Notre Dame needed only a win or a draw to clinch the ACC regular-season title, with the trophy physically waiting under Ambrose Urbanic Field. However, Pitt played with determination, refusing to let the Irish celebrate on their home turf.
This marks the first time in Pitt women’s soccer history that they have defeated a No. 1 ranked team. Despite the historic win, the Panthers’ overall season was challenging, finishing with a 6-10-2 record and only two wins in ACC play, highlighting the team’s struggle for consistency in a highly competitive conference.
“Off a late corner from senior forward Margaret Wilde, junior defender Mya Archibald sent a clean header inside the left post to give the Panthers the lead.”
“Junior goalkeeper Abby Reisz delivered one of her strongest performances of the season, recording six saves, including a crucial stop in the first half that stopped Notre Dame’s early momentum.”
“Led by junior captain Olivia Lee, the Panthers’ backline stayed disciplined and compact, preventing the Irish from generating the dangerous touches in the box they’re accustomed to.”
Author’s summary: Pitt women’s soccer ended a difficult season on a high note by defeating No. 1 Notre Dame, marking a historic first win over a top-ranked team despite overall struggles in ACC play.