Claire Sporer Associate Director of Athletic Peformance | Michigan State Spartan Athletics Website
Claire Sporer Associate Director of Athletic Peformance | Michigan State Spartan Athletics Website
Michigan State's women's soccer team is set to face Duke in the NCAA Sweet 16. The match, scheduled for Sunday, November 24, will take place at Duke's Koskinen Stadium in Durham, North Carolina. Michigan State enters the game with a record of 14-2-5 after a narrow victory over Texas in overtime during the second round.
The Spartans' Mackenzie Anthony played a crucial role by scoring both the opening and golden goals in their last match. Meg Hughes leads Michigan State in points and assists this season, while Justina Gaynor and Kaitlyn Parks have also made significant contributions.
Duke boasts a strong record of 16-2-1, having remained undefeated in ACC play. They secured their spot in the third round with a decisive win against Texas Tech. Maggie Graham, named ACC Midfielder of the Year, has been pivotal for Duke alongside other key players like Cameron Roller and Leah Freeman.
This encounter marks the first-ever meeting between Michigan State and Duke. Michigan State is making its third consecutive appearance in the NCAA Tournament and aims to advance beyond its previous best showing.
The winner of this matchup will proceed to the quarterfinals to face either Iowa or Virginia Tech.