Despite dominating possession, generating 10 corner kicks, and landing seven shots on goal, UCLA couldn’t break past Wisconsin goalkeeper Drew Stover, who made seven incredible saves. Wisconsin made a goal from Adee Boer to hand UCLA a narrow defeat.
Both teams opened the first half cautiously. UCLA pressed early, creating multiple throw-ins and earning their first corner in the sixth minute. Bridgette Marin-Valencia, Leena Powell and Lily Boyden each threatened the Wisconsin net with early attempts, but none were able to get past Stover and make a goal. The Bruins outshot Wisconsin 7–1 in the first half, yet the score remained 0–0 at the break. In the second half, Wisconsin found its breakthrough. Midfielder Boer scored the lone goal of the match, assisted by Kiara Gilmore, giving the Badgers a 1–0 lead they would not relinquish. UCLA continued to push forward, with Powell, Boyden and Grace Shank leading the attack. Shank’s late attempt in the 90th minute was blocked, sealing Wisconsin’s win. Throughout the match, goalkeeper Daphne Nakfoor anchored the Bruins’defense, with one save. On the other end, Stover’s seven saves made the difference for Wisconsin. Despite the loss, the Bruins maintained composure, finishing with four fouls compared to Wisconsin’s 10.
UCLA is now #26 in D1 Women’s Soccer rankings. The Bruins will face the Minnesota Gophers who are ranked #57 next on Oct. 12 in Minnesota where they’ll aim to convert their offensive dominance into goals.
Featured Image Photographed by Leydi Cris Cobo Cordon/Daily Bruin
