SYRACUSE, N.Y. – The Syracuse women’s soccer team earned its second straight ACC loss, falling to No. 8 Stanford 2-0. The Orange have struggled to score this season, netting only 10 goals through 13 games.
Despite Stanford’s prowess, Syracuse showed no fear in the opening 15 minutes, pressing high against the 2025 national runner-up. The team had good off-ball movement, exploiting wide areas and utilizing the speed of Moo Galbus and Farrah Stephens-Martin on the wings.
A Cardinal goal in the 23rd minute forced Syracuse to shift to a defense-first strategy. The back line kept the Orange in the game, defending six corners in the half’s final stages.
In the second half, SU set a lower block as Stanford dominated possession, continuing to create chances. The Orange’s defensive positioning impeded the Cardinal through the first 19 minutes.
“[Stanford’s] going to outshoot their opponents. They’re going to have more corner kicks,” said Syracuse head coach Nicky Thrasher Adams. “It’s how teams deal with it, and I’m proud of our effort defensively.”
Those efforts were tested as Stanford doubled its lead during a chaotic few seconds post-corner kick. VAR confirmed the goal despite Syracuse protests of a handball.
The Orange’s offense picked up beginning in the 70th minute, spurred by second-half substitutes. Gabby Wisbeck hit the left post; Ali Howard sent one just wide; and Leda Naihin forced a save from Stanford’s goalkeeper.
Depth off the bench could be key for Syracuse in keeping playoff hope alive.
“At the end of the day, we’ve got four games left,” said Adams. “We’re in all four; we’re looking at postseason.”
The Orange are back in action Thursday, Oct. 15, as they travel to Raleigh, to take on North Carolina State at 6 p.m.