PENSACOLA, Fla. – In a thrilling rematch of an earlier season stalemate, the College of Idaho Women's Soccer team emerged victorious in their NAIA Championship Quarterfinal clash against UC Merced, defeating the Bobcats 2-1. The triumph propels the undefeated Yotes (20-0-2) into the national semifinal and one step closer to the coveted red banner.
The drama unfolded early at the Ashton Brosnaham Soccer Complex. Eden Makaafi's relentless pursuit on the end line of the Bobcat penalty area forced a defensive foul, earning the Yotes a penalty kick in the 7th minute. Alexis Eiguren, ice in her veins, stepped up and delivered a pinpoint strike into the bottom left corner. The Bobcat goalkeeper, Alicia Lepe, stood frozen as the Yotes claimed an early 1-0 lead.
With tensions rising in the second half, the Yotes' high-press strategy paid dividends. In the 53rd minute, a defensive misstep by UC Merced led to the Yotes pouncing and Eiguren finishing the opportunity and doubling the Yotes' advantage. The celebration was brief as UC Merced clawed one back in the 63rd minute, capitalizing on an unfortunate clearance attempt by the Yotes resulting in an own goal. However, the resolute College of Idaho defense held firm with standout performances by Ava Poyser and Isabel DeVille, ensuring no further damage.
The numbers told a story of Yotes dominance. Outshooting the Bobcats 14-6, College of Idaho peppered the opposing net, while their relentless attack kept Lepe scrambling. The Yotes defense, meanwhile, was impenetrable, with Brenchley commanding her penalty area and remaining untested in saves.
This victory was a statement of the Yotes' determination and growth since their earlier 1-1 draw with the Bobcats at Simplot Stadium. Now, they turn their sights to SCAD Savannah, their semifinal opponent, in a Saturday showdown set for 12 p.m. Mountain Time.
With the stakes rising, the Yotes stand united, ready to chase history and continue to battle to bring the red banner home.
