OXFORD, MISSISSIPPI — Lipscomb pulled off a stunning upset, defeating sixth-ranked Mississippi State 1-0 on Saturday in the NCAA Division I Women's Soccer Championship before 1,590 spectators. The visiting Bisons, riding a four-game winning streak, broke through against the higher-seeded Bulldogs with a first-half goal that proved decisive in a tightly contested tournament matchup.
Bella Carapazza scored the match-winner in the 31st minute, assisted by Chloe Iliff, giving Lipscomb an early advantage the hosts could never overcome. The goal came during a first half that remained largely competitive, with neither team establishing complete dominance before the breakthrough. Mississippi State entered the contest ranked sixth nationally and carrying momentum from a conference championship run, but the Bulldogs struggled to generate consistent offensive pressure early.
Lipscomb's goalkeeper Kaïna Cesar proved instrumental in preserving the lead, making six saves throughout the match. Her most critical stops came late, including a save on a Hannah Jibril shot in the 77th minute and another on Laila Murillo's attempt in the 82nd minute. Cesar's composure under pressure kept Mississippi State at bay despite the hosts' relentless second-half assault.
The Bulldogs dominated possession and territory after halftime, generating 11 corner kicks compared to Lipscomb's single corner. Mississippi State also held a significant advantage in shot attempts, firing 18 total shots to the Bisons' three. However, the Bulldogs managed only six shots on goal and could not find the back of the net despite numerous opportunities in the final stages.
Ally Perry led Mississippi State's offensive efforts with multiple attempts, though none found the target. Laila Murillo also created chances late in the match, including a shot that hit the woodwork in the 83rd minute. The Bulldogs' inability to convert their chances proved costly against a Lipscomb team that defended with discipline and efficiency. Lipscomb now plays #3 Florida State University.
Lipscomb's defensive organization frustrated Mississippi State throughout, with Annessa Shively earning a yellow card for persistent infringement in the 54th minute. The Bisons made strategic substitutions to manage the pressure, bringing fresh legs into the match as the second half progressed. Maddy Rhodes received a yellow card in the 89th minute as Lipscomb held firm in the closing moments.
The victory extends Lipscomb's impressive tournament run. The Bisons entered the NCAA Championship on the strength of a 15-5-2 regular season record and consecutive ASUN Championship victories, including a 3-0 semifinal triumph over third-ranked North Florida. Mississippi State, conversely, arrived at the tournament following a disappointing SEC Championship performance that included a loss to fifth-ranked LSU.
This result demonstrates Lipscomb's tournament credentials as a legitimate national contender. The Bisons' balanced approach—combining defensive solidity with clinical finishing—proved effective against a higher-seeded opponent. Cesar's six saves and the team's collective defensive effort showcased the depth that has defined their season, while Carapazza's early goal provided the platform for a disciplined, composed performance.
Mississippi State's loss marks a significant setback for the sixth-ranked program's national championship aspirations. The Bulldogs' inability to capitalize on their