DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA — #2 Duke dominated Elon 3-0 on Friday in NCAA Division I women's soccer action before 706 spectators at home. The Blue Devils controlled the match from start to finish, outshooting the Phoenix 29-1 while recording 10 shots on goal to Elon's zero. Duke's offensive pressure proved relentless throughout the 90 minutes, with the team generating 15 corner kicks compared to Elon's single corner opportunity.
Mia Minestrella emerged as the catalyst for Duke's dominant performance, scoring all three goals. Minestrella opened the scoring in the 38th minute, assisted by Kat Rader, giving the Blue Devils a 1-0 lead at halftime. She added her second goal in the 45th minute, again with Rader providing the assist, extending Duke's advantage to 2-0 early in the second half. Minestrella completed her hat trick in the 47th minute with an assist from both Mia Oliaro and Jocelyn Travers, putting the match beyond reach at 3-0.
Duke's second-half adjustments proved immediately effective. The Blue Devils made four substitutions at the break, replacing Phoebe Goldthwaite, Lauren Martinho, Avery Oder, and Farrah Walters. The fresh legs contributed to Duke's continued dominance, as the team maintained possession and created numerous scoring opportunities throughout the final 45 minutes. Elon's defense struggled to contain the Blue Devils' attacking movement, particularly through the middle of the pitch where Minestrella operated with considerable freedom.
Elon's goalkeeper made seven saves to prevent an even larger deficit, demonstrating the Phoenix's defensive resilience despite being thoroughly outmatched in possession and territory. The visiting team managed only one shot attempt for the entire match, highlighting Duke's control of the game's tempo and flow. Elon's inability to generate offensive chances reflected Duke's suffocating defensive pressure and superior midfield dominance.
The Blue Devils' performance showcased the quality expected of a top-two national seed. Duke's passing accuracy and movement off the ball created constant problems for Elon's backline, which found itself under siege for extended stretches. The team's ability to convert opportunities efficiently—scoring three goals on 10 shots on goal—demonstrated clinical finishing alongside creative playmaking.
Duke now plays UCF.
Elon entered the match coming off