ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN — Notre Dame advanced in the NCAA Division I tournament with a 1-0 victory over Michigan on Thursday, courtesy of a 50th-minute own goal before 1,133 spectators at Michigan Soccer Stadium.
The Fighting Irish (9-6-4) broke through a scoreless first half when Ren Sylvester's close-range shot deflected off a Michigan defender's head and into the net five minutes into the second period. The goal proved to be the difference in a tightly contested tournament matchup.
Michigan dominated territorially, outshooting Notre Dame 21-9 and earning 10 corner kicks to the visitors' five. The Wolverines recorded eight shots on goal in the opening half alone, but Notre Dame's goalkeeper made eight saves throughout the match to preserve the clean sheet.
Despite Michigan's offensive pressure after conceding, Notre Dame's defensive discipline frustrated the hosts' attempts to find an equalizer. The Wolverines' inability to convert their chances proved costly against an organized Irish backline.
Discipline became a factor as Michigan accumulated six yellow cards compared to Notre Dame's two. The home team's frustration peaked in the 90th minute when Mitar Mitrovic received a red card for abusive conduct, ending any hopes of a late comeback.
The victory marked a significant tournament result for Notre Dame, who entered following recent ACC Championship losses. Michigan had won the Big Ten Championship days earlier before falling 5-0 to UCLA in their previous outing. Notre Dame's tactical discipline and ability to capitalize on limited opportunities proved decisive in advancing past the Wolverines. Notre Dame now plays Akron.