NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Top-seeded Vanderbilt outlasted eighth-seeded Clemson 3-2 in double overtime Friday, advancing to the NCAA Championship semifinals after Adysen Armenta's 106th-minute winner before 635 at Vanderbilt Soccer Complex.
The match remained scoreless through a tightly contested first half despite Vanderbilt's territorial advantage. Olivia Stafford hit the woodwork in the 27th minute, while Clemson goalkeeper Addy Holgorsen made several saves before halftime. Sara Wojdelko denied Renee Lyles' attempt in the 43rd minute in Clemson's best first-half chance.
Vanderbilt broke through early in the second half when Sydney Watts finished from close range in the 54th minute, assisted by Maci Teater and Mary Beth McLaughlin. McLaughlin added an unassisted goal two minutes later to put the Commodores ahead 2-0.
Clemson responded immediately. Anna Castenfelt converted a penalty kick in the 64th minute to cut the deficit to 2-1, then equalized three minutes later to force overtime at 2-2.
The Commodores dominated possession throughout, outshooting Clemson 20-6 and earning 17 corner kicks to the Tigers' three. Nona Reason, who replaced Holgorsen at halftime, made four crucial saves to keep Clemson competitive. Armenta hit the woodwork in the 88th minute before finally breaking through in the second overtime period.
The victory sets up a semifinal matchup against fourth-seeded LSU. Vanderbilt's persistence and attacking depth proved decisive against Clemson's stubborn defensive effort, with the Commodores' ability to find a late winner showcasing their championship credentials.