West Virginia University’s women’s soccer team delivered a captivating performance on August 20, 2026, downing No. 23 Penn State 2‑1 at the iconic Dick Dlesk Soccer Stadium in Morgantown.
First Half Tension
The Nittany Lions struck first, with Anna Babcock finding the net at the 34‑minute mark. The Mountaineers answered quickly, as Olivia Shertzer unleashed a 30‑yard strike that leveled the score before the break, leaving the teams deadlocked at 1‑1 and the shot count finely balanced at 3‑2 in Penn State’s favor.
The second half saw West Virginia seize control. A precise pass from Jordyn Wilson set up Sophia Nickel, whose clinical finish broke the deadlock and secured a 2‑1 lead. Despite a late surge, Penn State could not find an equalizer, and the Mountaineers finished with a 4‑3 edge in shots.
Implications and Outlook
The victory not only avenges last season’s 3‑1 defeat but also signals a strong start for the Mountaineers as they prepare to host the Duquesne Dukes on Sunday at 1 p.m. The early‑season win bolsters confidence and positions West Virginia favorably in the rankings.