WEST LAFAYETTE, INDIANA — #9 Illinois pulled off a stunning upset over #8 Ohio State, securing a 1-0 victory Thursday in the 2025 Women's Soccer Overwatch Big Ten Championship at a neutral site. Lia Howard's 54th-minute strike proved to be the difference in a tightly contested matchup between two national championship contenders. The Illini improved to 13-4-2 with the road win, while the Buckeyes fell to 8-4-6 and suffered their second consecutive loss.
Howard's goal came at a critical juncture in the second half when Illinois broke through Ohio State's defense. The forward capitalized on a loose ball in the box, finishing with precision to give the Illini their first lead of the match. It was a moment of clinical finishing that would ultimately decide the tournament game, as neither team found the back of the net again despite sustained pressure from both sides.
Ohio State dominated possession in the opening 45 minutes, with Ava Bramblett, Amanda Schlueter, and Elle Britt combining for multiple attempts. The Buckeyes generated seven corner kicks in the first half alone, consistently testing Illinois' defense. Bramblett fired four shots, while Schlueter added three more, but Illinois goalkeeper kept the visitors level through a combination of solid positioning and defensive support. The first half ended scoreless despite Ohio State's territorial advantage.
Illinois adjusted its approach after the break, becoming more direct in transition. The Illini's defensive shape tightened considerably, and they began creating more dangerous counterattacking opportunities. Sydney Stephens and Sarah Foley provided width on the flanks, while the midfield worked tirelessly to disrupt Ohio State's rhythm. This tactical shift ultimately created the space Howard needed to strike in the 54th minute.
The Buckeyes responded with urgency following the goal, pressing forward aggressively in search of an equalizer. Schlueter continued her relentless pursuit of chances, testing Illinois' backline repeatedly. Ohio State earned two additional corner kicks late in the match and forced Illinois into a defensive shell, but the Illini held firm. Illinois goalkeeper made 11 saves throughout the contest, a testament to the pressure Ohio State applied.
Illinois' defensive resilience was the story of the second half. Despite Ohio State's 22 shot attempts to Illinois' 10, the Illini limited the Buckeyes to just three shots on goal after halftime. Lia Howard's yellow card for unsporting conduct in the 89th minute was a minor blemish on an otherwise composed performance. The visitors absorbed everything Ohio State threw at them and managed the final minutes with composure.
The statistical disparity told the tale of a match where Ohio State controlled play but Illinois converted their opportunity. The Buckeyes outshot Illinois 22-10 overall and earned seven corner kicks compared to three for the visitors. Yet Illinois' efficiency in front of goal and their goalkeeper's 11 saves proved decisive in a tournament setting where one mistake can end a season.
This result carries significant NCAA Tournament implications for both programs. Illinois' victory strengthens their tournament resume considerably, while Ohio State faces questions about their postseason positioning after consecutive defeats. The Illini will face #1 Washington on Sunday in their next Big Ten Championship match, looking to build momentum from this upset.
For Ohio State, the loss marks a frustrating end to their tournament run. Despite their dominance in possession and shot volume, the Buckeyes couldn't find the breakthrough against a disciplined Illinois side. The team will regroup and prepare for their final tournament game, hoping to salvage their championship hopes with a strong finish.