RALEIGH, N.C. – NC State and Florida State battled to a dramatic 1-1 draw in a physical NCAA women's soccer match at Dail Soccer Stadium on Thursday evening. The contest, marked by late drama and multiple momentum shifts, saw both teams find the net in the final ten minutes, with Jade Bordeleau and Wrianna Hudson emerging as the key protagonists in a match that showcased the competitive nature of ACC soccer.
The defining moment appeared to come at the 80:26 mark when NC State's Jade Bordeleau broke the deadlock. The striker's goal, coming after 80 minutes of intense defensive battle, seemed destined to secure all three points for the Wolfpack. The home crowd erupted as Bordeleau's finish provided what looked to be the decisive breakthrough in a match that had been desperately seeking an offensive spark.
The tactical approach of both teams reflected the intense nature of the contest, with NC State managing to create four shots despite limited possession. Florida State's disciplined defensive setup largely neutralized the Wolfpack's attacking threats, though the hosts made the most of their opportunities when they arose. The corner kick count favored Florida State (2-1), but neither team could capitalize on their set-piece opportunities until the late stages of the match.
The goalkeeping display from both sides proved crucial in maintaining the tension throughout the match. The defensive organizations of both teams were particularly impressive, with both backlines showing remarkable resilience under pressure. The clean sheets remained intact until the final ten minutes, highlighting the quality of the defensive performances on both sides.
Florida State's late equalizer through Wrianna Hudson at the 89:25 mark, assisted by Jordynn Dudley, demonstrated the Seminoles' never-say-die attitude. Dudley's creative play in setting up Hudson showed why she's considered one of the conference's most dynamic attackers, while Hudson's clinical finish under pressure highlighted her composure in crucial moments.
For NC State, the supporting cast behind Bordeleau's effort was notable. Mackenzie Smith and Antonella Mazziotto showed tremendous work rate in midfield, while Mana Nakata's defensive contributions helped maintain the team's structure throughout the intense encounter. The collective effort nearly resulted in a signature victory for the Wolfpack.
The draw maintains both teams' competitive positions in the ACC standings, though NC State might feel they let two points slip away after holding the lead so late in the match. The result showcases the Wolfpack's ability to compete with one of the conference's perennial powers, while also highlighting areas for improvement as they move forward in their campaign.
For Florida State, the late equalizer demonstrates their championship mentality and ability to perform under pressure. The Seminoles' resilience, particularly through Dudley's creative influence and Hudson's finishing ability, provides positive momentum despite not securing all three points.
The match will be remembered as a testament to the competitive balance in ACC women's soccer, with both teams demonstrating why they're considered among the conference's top programs. The physical nature of the contest, combined with the late drama, delivered a compelling spectacle for the passionate crowd at Dail Soccer Stadium.