On Thursday, August 13, the Syracuse University women's soccer team will host the Villanova Wildcats at the SU Soccer Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 7:00 p.m. The matchup marks the start of a new chapter for the Orange, who are looking to bounce back from a 5‑9‑4 season a year ago.
The series between the two programs favors Villanova, which holds a 6‑2‑1 edge in all‑time meetings. Syracuse, however, has enjoyed a modest advantage on its own turf, going 2‑1‑1 in games played in Syracuse, highlighted by a 1‑0 victory on September 25, 2011.
After finishing the 2023‑24 campaign with a 5‑9‑4 record, the Orange are banking on fresh talent to revitalize their attack. Junior transfer Farrah Stephens‑Martin and freshman forward Lauren Christy are expected to shoulder much of the offensive load, while defensive stalwarts Jasmine Nixon and Bree Bridges return as key starters.
Goalkeeper Shea Vanderbosch, who has been a mainstay since 2021, will miss the opener for the first time in his career, opening the door for graduate starter Hannah Dickinson between the posts. Dickinson posted a 0.96 goals‑against average and an .802 save percentage in 2025, giving the team a reliable last line of defense.
Syracuse entered the month with two exhibition wins, routing Mercyhurst 5‑0 and Le Moyne 4‑0. Transfer Maya Naimoli, who arrived from Youngstown State, started both games and kept a clean sheet in each, suggesting the defensive unit is gelling early.
Key Storylines
On the opposite side, the Wildcats finished the 2025 season with a 9‑8‑1 record under head coach Samar Azem. Sophomore forward Avrie Nelsen led the squad with five goals, while junior Morgan Kotch contributed three goals and three assists, providing a potent attacking duo.
With both teams eager to test new lineups, the upcoming contest promises a blend of youthful energy and seasoned experience. The Orange will look to translate their strong preseason form into a positive result against a Villanova side that remains competitive in the Atlantic region.