DURHAM, N.C. - Duke (10-3-1) continued their impressive run with a 2-0 victory over Syracuse (5-8-4) on Thursday evening at Koskinen Stadium. The Blue Devils dominated possession and created numerous scoring opportunities throughout the match, extending their winning streak to four games.
Kat Rader broke the deadlock in the 41st minute, giving Duke a 1-0 lead heading into halftime. The Blue Devils doubled their advantage in the 65th minute when Mia Oliaro found the back of the net off a well-worked combination play from Devin Lynch and Elle Piper.
The first half saw Duke establish control early, with Mia Minestrella testing the Syracuse defense with shots in the 3rd and 13th minutes. The Blue Devils' pressure continued as Jocelyn Travers and Carina Lageyre both had quality chances before the 10-minute mark. Syracuse struggled to gain a foothold, managing just one shot attempt in the opening 45 minutes while Duke recorded 14 shots.
Duke maintained their attacking momentum after the break, with Avery Oder forcing a save in the 51st minute. Syracuse showed brief signs of life when Julia Arbelaez registered a shot in the 76th minute, but Duke's defense, anchored by Elle Piper, remained resolute. The Blue Devils' tactical adjustments at the hour mark, including the introduction of fresh attackers, helped maintain their control of the match.
The final statistics highlighted Duke's dominance, as they outshot Syracuse 32-6, including a 12-1 advantage in shots on goal. The Blue Devils also earned nine corner kicks to Syracuse's one, while the Orange picked up the match's only yellow card in the 79th minute for dissent.
Several Duke players delivered standout performances, particularly Mia Minestrella, who recorded five shots before being substituted in the 74th minute. Devin Lynch was equally influential, creating multiple scoring opportunities and providing the assist on Oliaro's goal. Syracuse goalkeeper Shea Vanderbosch kept the score respectable with 10 saves throughout the match.
Duke's tactical approach focused on building attacks through the wide areas, with Jocelyn Travers and Carina Lageyre consistently threatening from the flanks. Syracuse attempted to counter through quick transitions but struggled to break through Duke's organized defensive structure, led by Phoebe Goldthwaite.
The victory strengthens Duke's position in the conference standings as they continue their impressive form. For Syracuse, the loss extends their winless streak to two matches, highlighting their ongoing offensive struggles away from home. The Orange have now been shut out in consecutive matches following their 1-0 defeat to Boston College.
Duke's defensive organization proved decisive, as they recorded their third clean sheet in their last five matches. The Blue Devils' ability to control possession and create quality chances while limiting Syracuse's opportunities demonstrated their growing confidence as the season progresses.
Both teams return to action on Sunday, October 26, with Duke traveling to face NC State in a 7:00 PM kickoff, while Syracuse heads to Chapel Hill for a 1:00 PM match against North Carolina.