A Rematch at Husky Stadium
The No. 10 Washington women's soccer team is back at Husky Soccer Stadium for a much‑anticipated rematch against Montana, a game that revisits the scene of last season’s NCAA Tournament first‑round clash.
Pursuing a Milestone Start
Washington is chasing its first three‑win start since 2014, a milestone that would mark the program’s earliest 3‑0 stretch in more than a decade and set the tone for a season that includes a bid for a Big Ten double.
Montana’s First‑Year Challenges
Montana, under first‑year head coach Stuart Gore, enters the match after a 0‑2‑0 opening, hoping to finally register its first goal of the campaign while building on a roster that features five Washington natives.
Alex Buck’s Goal‑Scoring Impact
A key figure for the Huskies is Alex Buck, whose ten career goals have all come once conference play began, including nine in 2025, giving the team a potent attacking option.
Defensive Strength and Experience
Defensively, Washington boasts a strong record, with 25 clean sheets since 2024 that tie for ninth nationally, anchored by goalkeeper Tanner Ijams, who posted a 0.67 goals‑against average and 11 shutouts in a recent season.
Veteran Roster and Coaching Stability
The Huskies’ lineup includes 17 players in their third collegiate season or later, providing a blend of experience and depth that coach Nicole Van Dyke, who secured a contract extension through 2030, has cultivated.
Game‑Day Extras and Streaming
Special events will accompany the game, including free admission for campers and opportunities for fans to meet the players for autograph signings, while the match will be streamed on B1G+.
Series History and Future Goals
Washington holds an 8‑1‑0 advantage in the ten‑game series history, a statistic that fuels confidence as the team eyes a conference sweep and a potential Big Ten regular‑season title.
Montana’s Defensive Highlights
Montana’s defensive standout Lucie Rokos earned Preseason All‑Big Sky honors, and junior Avery Heeb brings a .545 save percentage from 2026, underscoring the competitive balance of the upcoming clash.