| WEEK 8: Illinois (5-4-3, 1-2-2) at Minnesota (4-4-4, 0-3-2) | |
|---|---|
| Match 13: Minnesota | Sunday, Oct. 8 // 1 p.m. CT // Elizabeth Lyle Robbie Stadium // Minneapolis, Minn. |
| Live Stats | FightingIllini.com |
| Printable Notes | Illinois // Minnesota |
| Shop | Online Store |
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Fighting Illini soccer continues Big Ten play with a showdown at Minnesota on Sunday, Oct. 8. Kickoff is set for 1:00 p.m. CT and the match will be broadcast on Big Ten Network.
The 2023 season marks the 27th season of Illinois soccer, with the Illini holding an overall record of 282-213-46 (.564), and the 22nd season under the leadership of head coach Janet Rayfield.
Last Time Out
Illinois went 0-1-1 in its previous matchweek, earning a point and a clean sheet in a scoreless draw with Northwestern on Sept. 28, before having its comeback effort fall just short in a 2-1 defeat to Ohio State on Oct. 1.
Against the Wildcats, the Illini put forth a stout defensive effort, allowing just four shots on target, which were all saved by goalkeeper Julia Cili. It marked Illinois’ third shutout of the campaign and first point earned in Evanston since April 3, 2021.
Illinois saw its two-match unbeaten run end against the Buckeyes, as a late rally fell just short. The Illini fell behind 2-0 after just 30 minutes of play, but Lia Howard managed to pull one goal back in the 83rd minute to set up a frantic finish to the match.
Scouting Minnesota
The Illini lead in the all-time series against the Golden Gophers 13-10-5, drawing 2-2 in the last meeting between the two programs on Oct. 23, 2022, at Demirjian Park. In the last match in Minneapolis, Illinois fell in a 5-0 contest on Oct. 14, 2021.
Minnesota has posted a record of 4-4-4 overall and is 0-3-2 in the Big Ten. The Gophers went 0-1-1 in their last matchweek, falling Wisconsin on Sept. 28 before drawing 0-0 with No. 16 Indiana on Oct. 1. Minnesota was tabbed to finish ninth in the Big Ten this season, with goalkeeper Megan Plashcko, midfielder Abi Frandsen and midfielder Sophia Boman all being named to the Big Ten Women’s Soccer Players to Watch List.
Illini Notes
- After Makala Woods’ opening goal on Sept. 24 vs. Michigan, she became the eighth different Illini to score this season…Illinois had 11 different…
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