The 2023 Ally ACC Women’s Soccer Championship final was nothing short of a thrilling showcase of skill and determination from both the Florida State Seminoles and the Clemson Tigers. The game ended with a hard-fought victory for the top-seeded Seminoles, who claimed their fourth consecutive and 10th overall ACC title with a 2-1 win over the third-seeded Tigers.
The Seminoles’ undefeated streak was on the line, with a season record of 16-0-1. This match was not just about the title but also an automatic bid into the NCAA Tournament, adding extra pressure and stakes to the game.
Onyi Echegini, the 2023 ACC Offensive Player of the Year, was the star of the match, scoring both goals for the Seminoles. Her first goal came early in the seventh minute, setting the tone for the game with a long-distance strike. This early goal showcased her offensive prowess and put immediate pressure on the Tigers.
However, the Tigers responded with resilience. In the 29th minute, Mackenzie Duff equalized the score, finding the back of the net for her second tally of the postseason. This showed Clemson’s ability to bounce back and maintain their competitive spirit.
The game-changing moment came in the 56th minute when a turnover by the Tigers in their box led to Echegini’s second goal. Beata Olsson skillfully corralled the ball and sent a cross into the box that found Echegini, securing the lead for the Seminoles. Echegini’s consistent performance throughout the game earned her the Most Valuable Player honors.
Defensively, FSU goalkeeper Cristina Roque had an exceptional game, making three crucial stops, including two in the second half. These key saves proved pivotal in preserving the Seminoles’ lead and ultimately securing their victory.
While the Seminoles outscored the Tigers 11-8, it’s clear that the game was closely contested. Despite the loss, the Tigers showed their tenacity and skill, proving why they were one of the top three seeds in the championship.
This match was a testament to Florida State’s offensive prowess and solid defense, led by key players Onyi Echegini and Cristina Roque. However, Clemson’s performance reminds us that they are a formidable team capable of challenging even the top teams in the country.
Discover how the Florida State Seminoles secured victory against the Clemson Tigers in a gripping championship match. Read on to relive the game-changing moments, incredible performances, and intense competition that made this game one for the ages!
