Michigan State's field hockey team opened its 2026 campaign with a decisive 3‑1 victory on the road against Ohio, a win that also marked head coach Tamara Durante’s first triumph in her new role.
Key Performances
The scoring was led by senior forward Bianca Pizano, who converted a penalty stroke in the 24th minute, junior Mora Cavazza, who added the second goal early in the third period, and sophomore Nina Angeli, who sealed the win with an insurance goal in the 56th minute. Junior Lilian Knorr contributed the lone assist, while junior goalkeeper Lola Munoz de Verger made three saves in her debut for the Spartans.
Michigan State dominated possession and shot volume, outshot Ohio 20‑7 overall and 14‑4 on goal. Early in the match the Spartans generated four shots and earned a penalty corner in the opening period, and junior Caro Schaefer came close to extending the lead before halftime.
Ohio managed to cut the deficit to 2‑1 with a goal in the final two seconds of the third period, but the Spartans responded swiftly, with Angeli’s 56th‑minute strike providing the final margin. The team’s disciplined defensive structure and aggressive attacking rhythm set a promising tone for the season ahead.