Pitt Women’s Soccer Ends Tumultuous Season with Victory Over No. 1 Notre Dame
The Panthers women’s soccer team concluded a challenging season by surprising No. 1 Notre Dame at Ambrose Urbanic Field. The decisive moment came in the 85th minute when junior defender Mya Archibald headed in a corner from senior forward Margaret Wilde, securing the lead.
Junior goalkeeper Abby Reisz showcased one of her best performances this season, making six saves, including a vital stop in the first half that halted Notre Dame’s early momentum.
Defensive Effort and Leadership
Despite Notre Dame needing only a win or draw to clinch the ACC regular-season title, Pitt played with determination and organization. Junior captain Olivia Lee led a disciplined and compact defense that limited Notre Dame’s usual dangerous opportunities inside the box.
Holding a Powerful Offense Scoreless
A team that had scored eight goals in a single match earlier in the season was kept scoreless by an underdog Pitt squad unwilling to witness a trophy presentation on their home field.
“This is the first time in program history that Pitt women’s soccer has beaten a No. 1 team.”
Season Overview
The Panthers did not have the successful season many anticipated, finishing with a 6-10-2 overall record and only two ACC wins, struggling to find consistency in one of the nation’s toughest women’s conferences.
Still, their stunning victory over the top-ranked team stands as a historic and proud highlight of their season.
Author’s summary: Pitt women’s soccer capped a difficult season with a historic upset over No. 1 Notre Dame, demonstrating resilience and defensive strength despite overall struggles.