No. 2 seed North Carolina women’s soccer secured a commanding performance in its 3-0 College Cup semifinal victory over top-seeded Duke on Friday night, advancing to the NCAA final for the first time since 2022.
Maddie Dahlien, Olivia Thomas and Kate Faasse scored three goals as UNC dominated from start to finish. The loss marked the end of Duke head coach Robbie Church’s storied career, which saw him transform the program into a perennial contender over 24 seasons.
Faasse led the way with two goals, including a penalty kick in the 12th minute that gave UNC an early lead. Thomas doubled the score in the 24th minute with a solo effort after Bella Gaetino delivered a long ball over the middle.
The Tar Heels sealed the win in the 59th minute with a dominant team effort, as Clare Gagne launched a kick and Kate Faasse created space for Maddie Dahlien to score the third goal.
UNC’s victory extends North Carolina’s legacy despite coaching turnover. The team has exceeded expectations under interim coach Damon Nahas, who secured his team’s 28th national championship appearance in program history.
The Tar Heels will face No. 2 seed Wake Forest on Sunday in pursuit of their 23rd NCAA title. After falling short in the 2022 championship game, UNC is now poised for redemption with a talented and committed squad.
Source: https://www.newsobserver.com/sports/college/acc/article296487689.html