MADISON, WISCONSIN - Adee Boer needed just 87 minutes and 32 seconds to write the story of Wisconsin's hard-fought victory, slotting home Jenna Baumann's perfectly weighted through ball before a crowd of 1,542 at Dan McClimon Field, capping off the Badgers' third consecutive win and extending Southern California's losing streak.
The late breakthrough was the culmination of a defensive chess match where both teams marshaled their best efforts to stifle their opponents. Wisconsin's goalkeeper, Olivia Marks, made four saves to preserve the shutout, while her Southern California counterpart, Anna Rodriguez, recorded three saves in a valiant effort that ultimately fell short.
The first half was characterized by cautious probing, with neither team able to establish a clear rhythm. Wisconsin's Emily Nelson threaded a pass through the USC defense in the 23rd minute, but the attempt was snuffed out by timely intervention. The Badgers managed to create a few half-chances, including a 31st-minute free kick that sailed just wide of the post. Southern California, meanwhile, struggled to produce any meaningful shots on target, epitomizing their afternoon.
The statistical ledger reveals a closely contested match, with Wisconsin outshooting Southern California 6-5 overall but matching them 4-4 on shots on target. The Badgers held a marginal advantage in corner kicks, edging the battle 5-4, though neither team capitalized on their set-piece opportunities. Wisconsin's defensive organization was on full display, absorbing USC's pressure and denying them clear scoring chances.
As the second half unfolded, both teams made tactical adjustments in search of the decisive goal. Wisconsin's Jenna Baumann orchestrated several promising attacks, including the match-winning through ball that found Boer in the box. Southern California, meanwhile, pushed more players forward in search of an equalizer, leaving them vulnerable on the counter. Their efforts were rewarded with nothing more than a series of half-chances, as Wisconsin's defense remained resolute.
The victory represents more than three points for Wisconsin; it cements their status as a force to be reckoned with in the conference, boasting an 11-3-1 record and riding a three-match winning streak. They now prepare to face Oregon, seeking to continue their momentum against the Ducks. For Southern California, the loss extends their losing streak to two games, leaving them with a 7-5-1 record and concerns about their defensive vulnerabilities as they head into their next match against Nebraska.
Looking ahead, the paths diverge sharply for these two teams. Wisconsin will look to build on their defensive solidity, while Southern California will need to address their finishing woes and find a way to capitalize on their chances. The afternoon ultimately belonged to Wisconsin—and specifically to Adee Boer's decisive finish.
Wisconsin's win was built on a foundation of defensive strength, with the Badgers limiting Southern California to just five shot attempts across 90 minutes. The team's ability to stifle their opponents' attacks was a key factor in their victory, and one that will be crucial as they look to continue their winning streak.
Key Players:
Adee Boer (Wisconsin) – Slotted home the match-winning goal in the 88th minute, capitalizing on Jenna Baumann's perfectly weighted through ball to secure Wisconsin's victory.
Jenna Baumann (Wisconsin) – Orchestrated several promising attacks, including the match-winning through ball that found Boer in the box, showcasing her incisive passing ability.
Olivia Marks (Wisconsin) – Made four saves to preserve the shutout, marshaling her defense and denying Southern California any clear scoring chances.
Anna Rodriguez (Southern California) – Recorded three saves in a valiant effort, though ultimately unable to prevent the loss as USC struggled to produce shots on target.