Pitt Women’s Soccer Ends Tumultuous Season by Defeating No. 1 Notre Dame
The Panthers women’s soccer team closed a challenging season with an unexpected victory over No. 1 Notre Dame at Ambrose Urbanic Field last week. The winning goal came in the 85th minute when junior defender Mya Archibald headed in a late corner kick taken by senior forward Margaret Wilde, securing the lead for Pitt.
Junior goalkeeper Abby Reisz played a key role, delivering one of her best performances this season by making six saves, including a critical stop in the first half that halted Notre Dame’s early momentum.
Match Context and Team Performance
Notre Dame only needed a win or a draw to clinch the ACC regular-season title, with the trophy literally waiting under the field. However, Pitt defied expectations and played with determination.
- Junior captain Olivia Lee led the Panthers’ disciplined and compact defense.
- Pitt’s backline prevented Notre Dame from creating their usual dangerous scoring opportunities.
- Despite Notre Dame scoring eight goals in a previous match this season, Pitt held them scoreless.
Historic Victory and Season Summary
This win marked the first time in program history that Pitt women’s soccer defeated a No. 1 ranked team. Overall, the Panthers struggled throughout a demanding season, finishing with a 6-10-2 record and only two ACC wins, reflecting the tough competition they faced in the conference.
Pitt played like a team with something to prove.
They refused to let Notre Dame celebrate the trophy on their home field, showing resilience despite the many challenges faced during the season.
Author’s summary: Pitt women’s soccer closed a difficult season on a high note by defeating top-ranked Notre Dame for the first time, demonstrating grit and strong defense against a powerhouse opponent.