IOWA CITY, IOWA — #5 Iowa defeated South Dakota St. 1-0 on Friday in the NCAA Division I Women's Soccer Championship, securing a narrow victory before 2,482 spectators. Kenzie Roling scored the match's only goal in the 23rd minute, assisted by Lexy Griffin, as the Hawkeyes controlled possession throughout the contest despite South Dakota St.'s defensive resilience.
The Jackrabbits entered the tournament fresh off consecutive Summit League Championship victories over #2 Denver and #1 Oral Roberts, but found themselves unable to break through Iowa's defense. South Dakota St. managed just three shots on goal compared to Iowa's 10, with goalkeeper Miah Schueller making nine saves to keep the visitors in contention. The disparity in offensive opportunities reflected Iowa's dominance in territorial control, particularly in the second half.
Roling's opening goal came early in the first half when Griffin's assist found the forward in space. The goal proved decisive in a match that saw Iowa earn 13 corner kicks to South Dakota St.'s four. Despite the Hawkeyes' attacking pressure, South Dakota St. created several dangerous moments, including a shot by Jenna Maloy that struck the woodwork in the 16th minute.
Iowa's defense, anchored by goalkeeper Miah Schueller, weathered South Dakota St.'s second-half push effectively. The Jackrabbits earned a penalty kick in the 49th minute when Ellie Gusman drew a foul, though the opportunity did not result in a goal. Fernanda Mayrink received a yellow card for unsporting conduct during the sequence. South Dakota St. continued pressing late, but Iowa's backline held firm through the final whistle.
The Hawkeyes made extensive substitutions at halftime, rotating six players to manage fatigue and maintain intensity. South Dakota St. responded with seven substitutions of their own, attempting to shift momentum in the second half. Both teams made additional changes throughout the match, with Iowa ultimately deploying fresh legs to protect its advantage.
Iowa's 10 shots on goal demonstrated clinical finishing opportunities, though only one found the net. The Hawkeyes' 13 corner kicks provided multiple set-piece chances that South Dakota St. successfully defended. Sofia Bush, Berkley Binggeli, and Berit Parten all registered shots for Iowa but could not add to the scoreline.
Iowa now plays LSU.