UPDATE: In a stunning turn of events, the No. 1 ranked Stanford women’s soccer team suffered a devastating 1-0 loss to No. 3 Florida State in the College Cup final held Monday night in Kansas City. The defeat marks only the second time this season that the Cardinal has been shut out, ending their hopes for a championship title.
The Seminoles, now champions for the third time in five years, clinched victory with just 3 minutes remaining in the match. A critical play unfolded when a cross from Taylor Suarez was deflected by Stanford defender Elise Evans, allowing Wrianna Hudson to score, sealing the game for Florida State.
This loss is particularly shocking given Stanford’s offensive prowess, which led the nation with an average of four goals per game. The Cardinal outshot the Seminoles 18-8, and had a 9-3 advantage in shots on goal, yet failed to find the net against Florida State goalie Kate Ockene, who made crucial saves.
The defeat ends a remarkable season for Stanford, which had previously outscored opponents 22-5 in the NCAA Tournament. Despite their offensive firepower, led by TopDrawerSoccer Player of the Year Jasmine Aikey, who scored a game-winning free kick against No. 2 Duke in the semifinals, the Cardinal could not capitalize on their opportunities during the final.
Halftime saw Stanford at a scoreless tie for only the third time this season. Coach Paul Ratcliffe expressed confidence, stating, “Our final pass and our quality in the final third need to be a little sharper,” highlighting the team’s chances despite the score.
Florida State’s defense was formidable, managing to shut out Stanford and recording their 13th shutout of the season. This victory serves as a bittersweet end for Stanford’s seniors, including Aikey and ACC Defensive Player of the Year Elise Evans, who leave a legacy after three consecutive College Cup appearances.
With this latest loss, Stanford’s championship record falls to 3-4, with their last title won in 2019. The Cardinal must now regroup and look to the future, while Florida State celebrates another successful season and their fifth national title, trailing only North Carolina’s 22.
Fans and analysts alike are left to ponder what could have been as Stanford’s hopes for a comeback were dashed with a video review ruling against a potential foul in the final seconds of the match.
The soccer community watches closely as both teams prepare for the next season, reflecting on the emotional rollercoaster of this year’s tournament and the bright futures ahead for these talented athletes.
