The Syracuse University women's soccer team opened its 31st season in style, hosting Villanova at the SU Soccer Stadium in a tightly fought 0-0 draw.
Junior goalkeeper Maya Naimoli proved the difference, making four crucial saves in the second half, including decisive stops on headers by Morgan Kotch and Dez Zapata that kept the shutout intact.
Sophomore forward Julia Arbelaez added two goals to the effort, underscoring her role as a top scorer and helping Syracuse assert early dominance in attack.
Key Performances
Beyond the standout duo, sophomore Bree Bridges, juniors Anna Croyle, Jasmine Nixon and Vickie Jones all contributed meaningful minutes, while Villanova's Hannah Dickinson managed two saves of her own.
The match also highlighted Syracuse's historical edge, as the program now holds a 6-2-2 series advantage over Villanova, a record that reflects years of competitive balance.
Looking ahead, the Orange will return home on Sunday, August 16, to face Holy Cross at 1 p.m., with free admission offered to fans, promising another chance to build on the season's promising start.