Springfield Standard

Missouri State University's women's soccer team advanced to the Conference USA Championship final for the first time in program history after a 2-1 win over Middle Tennessee State University on Tuesday at Osborne Stadium in Lynchburg, Virginia. The Bears, seeded eighth, improved their season record to 7-8-4, while Middle Tennessee concluded its season at 11-6-3.

Missouri State took an early lead when Lillie Rasmussen scored in the fourth minute following a cross from Julia Kristensen. The Bears maintained offensive pressure throughout the opening phase of the match. Reilly Heman provided another opportunity with a cross to Kristensen, but MTSU goalkeeper Ella Sellers made a key save. Defensively, Kayla Smith played an important role by disrupting Middle Tennessee's attacks.

Middle Tennessee tied the game in the 23rd minute after Taijah Fraser capitalized on a defensive error and scored from distance. Missouri State regained control ten minutes later when freshman Ellie Neath scored her second goal of the tournament with a shot from outside the penalty area.

The Bears relied on their defense during the second half. Riley Smith helped disrupt MTSU's attempts to equalize, and Kayla Smith prevented another scoring chance inside the box. Goalkeeper Ella Becker contributed four saves, including two crucial stops late in the match.

Missouri State’s defense held off sustained pressure from Middle Tennessee until the final whistle. Maddie Schneiderhahn and Kayla Smith were central figures in maintaining the team's lead.

"Every game in this conference has been extremely tough and it only gets multiplied in the tournament," said head coach Kirk Nelson. "Tonight was one of the toughest games for us and it was a constant battle for the full 90 minutes. But our team came through on top with a strong showing on the defensive side, and some brilliant first-half goals to make the difference. This team is coming together at the right time and is ready to compete for the title!"

Missouri State will play against Liberty University, which is seeded second, in Friday’s championship final scheduled for 11 a.m. Central Time in Lynchburg.