RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA -
The NC State Wolfpack remained unbeaten at home this season, securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory over the Clemson Tigers on a crisp October evening. The match, played in front of a spirited crowd at Dail Soccer Stadium, saw NC State's Frankie DeFrancesco score the only goal of the game in the 52nd minute.
Clemson, looking to bounce back from their previous loss, came out strong, pressing NC State high up the pitch in the opening minutes. However, the Wolfpack's defense, marshaled by captain Isaiah Reid, held firm against the Tigers' attacks. The first real chance of the game fell to Clemson's Adam Wilson in the 15th minute, but his shot from outside the box sailed wide of the post. NC State's goalkeeper, Alex Svetlik, was not called upon to make a save until the 24th minute, when he comfortably gathered a Clemson cross.
As the first half wore on, NC State began to gain more possession and create scoring opportunities. In the 31st minute, DeFrancesco latched onto a through ball from Jake Gelnovatch and found himself one-on-one with the Clemson goalkeeper. However, his shot was saved by the Tigers' keeper, who tipped it over the crossbar for a corner kick. The Wolfpack continued to pressure Clemson, earning several corner kicks, but were unable to capitalize before halftime.
The second half saw NC State continue their dominance, outshooting Clemson 9-4 in the period. It was during this frame that DeFrancesco finally broke the deadlock. Receiving the ball on the left wing, DeFrancesco cut inside and unleashed a powerful shot that beat the Clemson goalkeeper at the near post in the 52nd minute. The crowd erupted as DeFrancesco celebrated with his teammates, including Gelnovatch, who had provided the assist on the goal.
Clemson pushed hard for an equalizer, but NC State's defense remained resolute. The Tigers managed only one shot on target throughout the game, a testament to the Wolfpack's defensive prowess. Svetlik made four saves in total, including a crucial stop from Clemson's Wilson in the 73rd minute to preserve the clean sheet. NC State's defenders were aided by two yellow cards shown to Clemson players, including one to their captain, Oumar Diakite, in the 65th minute.
The win marked NC State's ninth victory of the season and extended their unbeaten home record. The Wolfpack, currently ranked among the top teams in the conference, will look to continue their momentum when they host Notre Dame next. For Clemson, the loss was their third of the season, and they will look to regroup when they face Duke in their upcoming match.
In the end, NC State's clinical finishing and stout defense proved too much for Clemson to overcome. The Wolfpack outshot the Tigers 14-9 and earned eight corner kicks to Clemson's one. The victory was a testament to NC State's growing strength, both at the back and in front of goal. As the team looks to Notre Dame next, they will be buoyed by their defensive solidity and the form of players like DeFrancesco.
The final whistle marked another successful defensive display by NC State, who have now conceded just three goals all season. With their next match against Notre Dame looming, the Wolfpack will be keen to build on this performance and continue their push for a top conference finish.