A Resilient Debut
The DePaul women's soccer team opened its 2026 schedule with a hard‑fought 2-2 draw against the NIU Huskies, a result that underscored the squad's composure and tactical discipline.
Early in the seventh minute, captain Shayna da Silva delivered a precise set‑piece that found Dory Latenser, whose first career goal put the Blue Demons ahead.
NIU answered swiftly, with Abby Foulk capitalizing on a setup from Sarah Roy to take the lead in the 14th minute.
The Huskies extended their advantage in the 27th minute when Julianna Hill finished a feed from Mckenna Campbell‑Turkalj, making it 2-1.
DePaul’s response came after the break, as Mya Gardner converted a second successful corner from da Silva to level the score in the 51st minute.
Coach Michele O'Brien praised the team’s patience and composure, noting that the ability to stay focused after a halftime deficit was a key factor in the comeback.
Statistically, the Blue Demons outshot NIU 16‑6, earned a 9‑1 corner advantage, and limited the Huskies to just four saves, yet they were unable to secure a winning goal.
The match also marked several personal milestones, including Shayna da Silva’s first multi‑assist performance and Mya Gardner’s fourth‑year goal tally for DePaul.
Looking ahead, DePaul will travel to face Denver on Thursday, August 27, at 4 p.m. CT, eager to build on the lessons learned from this resilient display.