Pitt women’s soccer ends a tumultuous season, defeating No. 1 Notre Dame
The Panthers women’s soccer team concluded a challenging season with an unexpected triumph against top-ranked Notre Dame at Ambrose Urbanic Field last week. The decisive moment came in the 85th minute when junior defender Mya Archibald headed in a goal from a late corner by senior forward Margaret Wilde, securing the victory.
Junior goalkeeper Abby Reisz delivered one of her finest performances of the season, making six saves, including a key stop in the first half that halted Notre Dame’s early surge.
The context and pressure
Notre Dame only needed a win or a draw to clinch the ACC regular-season title. The trophy was literally waiting for them beneath Ambrose Urbanic Field. However, Pitt played with determination and composure, unwilling to witness a title ceremony on their home turf.
Discipline and leadership
Under junior captain Olivia Lee, the Panthers’ defense remained compact and organized, limiting Notre Dame’s usually dangerous attacks inside the box. The Irish, who once netted eight goals in a single game this season, were held scoreless by an inspired Pitt side that refused to yield.
Historic outcome
This victory marked the first time in program history that Pitt women’s soccer defeated a No. 1-ranked opponent. Despite this milestone, their overall record of 6–10–2, with just two ACC wins, reflected a season of inconsistency in one of the nation’s toughest women’s soccer conferences.
“Pitt played like a team with something to prove.”
Author’s summary
Pitt women’s soccer concluded a rocky year with a historic upset against top-ranked Notre Dame, demonstrating resilience and heart amid season-long struggles.