DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA — Duke survived a second-half comeback attempt from Clemson to secure a 3-2 victory Thursday night, extending the Blue Devils' winning streak to six games. The home side's attacking prowess overwhelmed the Tigers' defense early, with Mia Minestrella scoring twice to give Duke control before Clemson mounted a furious rally that fell just short. The match showcased Duke's offensive firepower while exposing Clemson's defensive vulnerabilities in a contest that remained competitive throughout.
Natalie Brooks opened the scoring for Clemson in the 12th minute, capitalizing on a setup from Neely Kerr to give the Tigers an early advantage. Duke responded swiftly through Minestrella, who found the back of the net in the 21st minute with Devin Lynch providing the assist. The momentum shifted decisively when Minestrella struck again just six minutes later, this time assisted by Jocelyn Travers, putting Duke ahead 2-1 at halftime. The Blue Devils' clinical finishing in the opening half proved the difference in what would become a back-and-forth affair.
Clemson controlled stretches of the first half despite trailing, with Juju Harris testing Duke's defense on multiple occasions. The Tigers generated several dangerous chances, including efforts from Renee Lyles and Emily Brough that sailed high. Duke goalkeeper made three saves to preserve the lead, while Clemson's defense struggled to contain the Blue Devils' movement in transition. The first 45 minutes belonged to Duke's attacking unit, which consistently found space in dangerous areas.
The second half began with Duke pushing for a third goal, and Carina Lageyre delivered in the 59th minute when she finished a chance set up by both Devin Lynch and Cameron Roller. That 3-1 advantage appeared to have settled matters, but Clemson refused to fold. Anna Castenfelt pulled one back in the 79th minute with an assist from both Juju Harris and Maddie Costello, suddenly making it 3-2 and breathing life back into the Tigers' comeback hopes.
Clemson pressed relentlessly in the final minutes, generating corner kicks and throw-ins in search of an equalizer. Harris had one last chance late, but Duke's defense held firm. The Blue Devils' ability to weather the storm in the closing stages proved decisive, with their goalkeeper recording one save when it mattered most. Despite Clemson's desperation, Duke's experience and composure under pressure ultimately prevailed.
Duke dominated possession and territory, recording 17 shot attempts to Clemson's 15, though the Tigers matched the Blue Devils' efficiency in front of goal with three shots on target compared to Duke's six. The home side's corner kick advantage—10 to Clemson's five—reflected their sustained pressure. Yellow cards went to Jolie Jenkins and Neely Kerr for Clemson, while Cameron Roller received one for Duke in a relatively clean match.
Minestrella's two-goal performance highlighted Duke's attacking depth, while Lageyre's composed finish showcased the Blue Devils' ability to capitalize on set pieces. For Clemson, Harris created multiple dangerous moments despite limited service, and Castenfelt's late goal demonstrated the Tigers' resilience. The individual battles in midfield often determined possession flow, with both teams showing flashes of quality.
The victory improves Duke to 12-3-1 on the season as the Blue Devils continue their impressive run through conference play. Clemson, now 7-5-5, suffered their first loss in three matches after consecutive wins over Wake Forest and Boston College. Duke's six-game winning streak positions them as a serious NCAA Tournament contender, while Clemson must regroup quickly to salvage their postseason hopes.
Duke returns to action against Virginia on November 2, looking to maintain momentum in the ACC stretch run. Clemson travels to face Notre Dame the same day, seeking to bounce back from this heartbreaking road loss and get back on track before the conference tournament.