A Slow Start at DeMartin Stadium
On August 12, 2026, the Michigan State University women's soccer team welcomed Xavier University to DeMartin Stadium in East Lansing, Michigan, for its season opener. The match began with a tightly contested first half that ended goalless, leaving both sides level at 0-0 as the teams headed into the break.
Coach Jeff Hosler acknowledged after the game that Xavier had been the more dominant side during that opening period, controlling possession and creating more chances. The Spartans, however, remained composed and used the halftime interval to regroup.
Second-Half Turnaround
The second half saw a dramatic shift in momentum. Senior midfielder Kayla Briggs opened the scoring within the first two minutes, slotting a precise strike that put Michigan State ahead 1-0. The early goal appeared to energize the squad, and they continued to press forward.
Twenty minutes later, senior forward Kennedy Bell doubled the lead with a well‑placed finish after a coordinated attack down the right flank. The 2-0 advantage steadied the Spartans and allowed them to manage the remainder of the match with confidence.
Hosler praised the contributions of Briggs and Bell, emphasizing that their leadership and experience were pivotal in the comeback. He noted that the team's improved performance in the second half reflected weeks of focused preparation and a belief in their ability to execute under pressure.
The victory not only marked a promising start to the 2026 campaign but also signaled a potential turning point for a program that had struggled in recent seasons. With senior players stepping up and the squad showing resilience after a quiet first half, Michigan State looks to build on this momentum as the schedule progresses.