LINCOLN, Neb. - Nebraska (6-3-5) secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Purdue (5-7-3) on Thursday evening when Reagan Raabe found the net in the 83rd minute at the Nebraska Soccer Field. The match-winning goal, assisted by both Carson Bohonek and Ella Rudney, broke a deadlock that had persisted for over 80 minutes.
After a scoreless first 82 minutes, Raabe delivered the decisive blow, receiving a well-placed pass from Bohonek and Rudney before slotting home a low shot to the center of the goal. The strike proved to be the difference in a tightly contested Big Ten battle.
The first half saw both teams create opportunities, with Nebraska showing more attacking intent. Ella Rudney tested the Purdue defense with a blocked shot in the 4th minute, while Carson Bohonek sent an attempt high in the same period. Purdue's Margaux Chauvet responded with a shot that went wide in the 5th minute. The half was marked by physical play, with Nebraska's Sadie Sant and Jo Sees both receiving cautions for aggressive challenges.
The second half intensity increased as both teams pushed for the breakthrough. Purdue's Emily Edwards was called into action multiple times, making crucial saves to keep her team in the match. The Cornhuskers' persistence finally paid off with Raabe's goal, which energized the home crowd and forced Purdue to chase the game in the final minutes.
Statistically, Nebraska dominated the attacking phases, outshooting Purdue 15-5 overall, with six shots on target compared to Purdue's zero. The corner kick battle was even at 7-7, highlighting the competitive nature of the match. Purdue's Edwards recorded five saves in a strong performance, while both teams showed discipline with only three total yellow cards issued.
Individual performances shaped the match outcome, with Raabe's clinical finish standing out as the decisive moment. Purdue's Emilia Deppe showed creativity in attack before receiving a yellow card, while Nebraska's defensive unit, anchored by their backline, secured their first clean sheet in three matches. Edwards' goalkeeping kept Purdue competitive throughout, making several crucial interventions.
Tactically, Nebraska's high-pressing approach disrupted Purdue's buildup play, forcing turnovers in dangerous areas. The Boilermakers attempted to counter through quick transitions, but struggled to create clear-cut chances against Nebraska's organized defense. Both teams utilized their bench extensively, with multiple substitutions trying to gain a tactical advantage.
The victory marks a significant turnaround for Nebraska, who had suffered consecutive losses to Iowa and Northwestern. For Purdue, the defeat extends their winless streak to three matches, following a draw with Indiana and a loss to Washington. The Cornhuskers' ability to secure three points despite the tight nature of the match demonstrates their resilience and offensive capability.
Looking ahead, both teams face quick turnarounds with weekend fixtures. Nebraska hosts Maryland on Sunday afternoon, looking to build on this momentum, while Purdue travels to Illinois, seeking to snap their winless run. The result strengthens Nebraska's position in the Big Ten standings while adding pressure to Purdue's conference campaign.