ST. PAUL, Minn. – The University of Northwestern took the field Saturday afternoon for the coldest and most important match of the season. With the UMAC Championship title and an NCAA Tournament berth on the line, the Eagles battled through the chill and the pressure in an exciting showdown. In the end, the University of Wisconsin–Superior found the lone goal that made the difference, taking the 1-0 victory.
The last two meetings between these programs ended in draws, showing just how evenly matched these powerhouses have been. As expected, the championship was a back-and-forth battle from both sides. In the first half, Superior focused on possession, holding the ball for 65% of the time and often playing within their own defensive third. They recorded just one shot on target, while the Eagles pressed and looked for opportunities to break through. Northwestern managed two shots in the opening 45 minutes, but neither side could find the back of the net in a scoreless first half.
Coming out of the break, UW-Superior bagged the game winner just nine minutes into the second half. The shot took a small deflection before sneaking past the defense and into the goal. From there, Northwestern pushed hard to find the equalizer, creating pressure and opportunities, but ultimately couldn't get that final goal-scoring touch.
The Eagles finished with five shots, led by Marie Kendall (Dakar, Senegal/Dakar Academy) with four and two on target , and Haley Mersberger (Kiel, Wis./Elkhart Lake Glenbeulah) with one. The pair, who have been consistent scoring threats all season, were tightly marked all afternoon. Sam Hansen (Cottage Grove, Minn./New Life Academy) finished the game with four saves through her 90 minutes between the pipes.
Despite the result, UNW Women's Soccer has plenty to be proud of through the 2025 season. Under first-year head coach Danny Brandt, Northwestern captured the regular season conference title, hosted the UMAC Tournament, and showcased a grit and unity that carried them to the championship.
Northwestern may still receive an at-large bid for the NCCAA National Tournament, which will be announced on November 23rd.
