STANFORD, CALIFORNIA — #12 Stanford broke through in the 64th minute to secure a 1-0 victory over Kansas City on Sunday, advancing in NCAA Division I tournament play. Alfonso Tenconi-Gradillas found the back of the net with an assist from Jack Pymm, giving the Cardinal the only goal they would need in front of 1,389 fans at home.
The match remained scoreless through 63 minutes of tightly contested soccer, with both teams creating chances but neither able to convert. Stanford dominated possession and territory throughout, outshooting Kansas City 18-6 overall and 5-2 on target. The Cardinal also controlled the midfield, earning 13 corner kicks compared to just two for the visiting Roos, who entered the match riding a win over Lindenwood.
Stanford's first-half performance suggested a breakthrough was coming. Will Cleary and Dylan Groeneveld both tested Kansas City's defense with shots, while Fletcher Bank and Liam Doyle created dangerous opportunities in the attacking third. Kansas City managed to stay organized defensively, with Miguel Fernandez and the back line limiting the damage despite sustained pressure. The teams went into halftime deadlocked at 0-0, though the Cardinal's attacking intent was unmistakable.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Stanford continuing to press forward while Kansas City looked to hit on the counter. The visitors had their moments—Wade Muttitt and Jeremy Francou both fired shots that went wide—but couldn't generate consistent offensive rhythm. Stanford's corner kick advantage became increasingly significant as the match wore on, with the Cardinal creating multiple set-piece opportunities.
Tenconi-Gradillas' goal finally broke the deadlock in the 64th minute when Pymm found him with a quality delivery. The finish was clinical, and Stanford's defense held firm for the final 26 minutes despite Kansas City's late push. The Cardinal made several substitutions to manage the closing stages, with Trevor Islam coming off late as Stanford controlled the tempo.
Stanford's defensive solidity proved just as important as the attacking breakthrough. Goalkeeper Dylan Groeneveld made two crucial saves, while the back line—anchored by Joshua Partal and Alfonso Tenconi-Gradillas—limited Kansas City's opportunities throughout. Kansas City's goalkeeper made four saves to keep his team in the match, but the volume of Stanford's chances eventually told the story.
The Cardinal finished with 13 corner kicks to Kansas City's two, a statistical advantage that reflected their control of the match. Stanford also drew two yellow cards late—Will Cleary for unsporting conduct and Groeneveld for time-wasting—as the match became increasingly chippy in the final stages. Kansas City's Ales Kohoutek and Miguel Fernandez were among those subbed out as the Roos tried to find a spark offensively.
This victory showcases Stanford's attacking depth and ability to break down a disciplined opponent, with Tenconi-Gradillas' clinical finishing highlighting the Cardinal's offensive capabilities when opportunities finally arrive. The win keeps Stanford's tournament momentum building after a recent loss to #7 SMU in ACC Championship play. Stanford now plays Washington.