NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Fourth-ranked LSU rallied from an early deficit to defeat fifth-seeded Iowa 2-1 Friday in the NCAA Division I Women's Soccer Championship, with Ava Galligan's 66th-minute winner sending the Tigers into the next round before just 110 spectators.
Elle Wildman gave Iowa the lead in the 14th minute, finishing a well-worked move involving Kenzie Roling and Berit Parten. LSU's response came swiftly—Ida Hermannsdottir equalized just two minutes later to level the match at 1-1, setting up a tense battle through halftime.
The first half featured end-to-end action with Iowa earning five corner kicks to LSU's two, though neither team could establish sustained control. Both sides created chances but couldn't convert, sending the teams to the break deadlocked.
LSU made tactical adjustments at halftime, introducing fresh legs in the 46th and 47th minutes that shifted momentum in their favor. The Tigers tightened defensively while continuing to press forward, creating better chances in the second half.
The breakthrough arrived in the 66th minute when Sydney Cheesman found Galligan, who finished clinically to give LSU a 2-1 advantage. Iowa pushed desperately for an equalizer over the final 24 minutes, with Sofia Bush and Berit Parten testing the Tigers' defense, but LSU's backline held firm.
Tensions mounted late as Jocelyn Ollivierre received a yellow card for unsporting conduct in the 70th minute. Iowa outshot LSU 11-9 overall, but the Tigers' clinical finishing and defensive organization proved decisive.
The victory continues LSU's championship pursuit after previous wins over Houston Christian (4-1) and extends their tournament run. Iowa's season ends despite a spirited performance, while LSU advances seeking their next challenge in the NCAA bracket. Galligan's late strike showcased the composure required in knockout soccer, where execution in crucial moments separates winners from losers. LSU now faces #1 team Vanderbilt.