What's Happening?
The University of North Carolina (UNC) women's soccer team is set to face Georgia in a significant NCAA college soccer match on Thursday night. UNC, the defending national champions, recently secured their first win of the season with a 5-0 victory over Siena. Despite starting the season as the top-ranked team in the Coaches Poll, UNC fell to the No. 12 spot after a loss to Tennessee. All-American forward Kate Faasse, who led the nation in scoring last season with 20 goals, has yet to score in the first two games of 2025. Georgia also achieved their first win with a 6-0 victory over Albany, featuring goals from four different players. The Bulldogs were ranked fourth in the SEC preseason coaches poll but received only one vote in the latest national poll. The match will be held at the Turner Soccer Complex in Athens, Georgia, and will be available for live streaming on SEC Network+ via the ESPN app.
Why It's Important?
This matchup is crucial for both teams as they aim to establish their standings early in the season. For UNC, a victory could help regain their top ranking and boost team morale after their unexpected drop in the polls. Georgia, on the other hand, seeks to prove their capabilities against a top-tier opponent, which could enhance their reputation within the SEC and nationally. The performance of key players like Kate Faasse will be closely watched, as her ability to score could significantly impact UNC's success. The outcome of this game may influence future rankings and set the tone for both teams' seasons.
What's Next?
Following this match, UNC will continue their season with games against Rice, UNC Greensboro, Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and Alabama. Georgia's upcoming schedule includes matches against Michigan, North Florida, Washington State, and Wyoming. Both teams will aim to build momentum and improve their standings in their respective conferences. The results of these games will be pivotal in shaping their paths towards potential postseason play.
