The Stanford women's soccer team faced a heartbreaking defeat in the NCAA Women's College Cup final, losing 1-0 to Florida State on Monday, December 8 . The match, held at CPKC Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri, was a fierce battle between the No. 1 overall seed Stanford and the No. 3 Florida State .
Despite a valiant effort from the Stanford Cardinal, who had advanced to the final with a 21-1-2 record, the team fell short in the championship game . The decisive moment came in the 87th minute when Wrianna Hudson of Florida State scored the winning goal, securing the Seminoles' fifth national championship in program history . Kate Ockene, the FSU goalkeeper, made a career-high nine saves, contributing significantly to the Seminoles' victory .
The match marked the third consecutive year that Stanford has reached the College Cup final, only to fall just short of the championship. This year, the Cardinal faced a resilient Florida State team, which had previously won the national title in 2018, 2020, 2022, and 2023 . The Seminoles' victory underscored their dominance in the NCAA women's soccer landscape, adding to their impressive track record of five national titles in the last five years .
Stanford's journey to the final was marked by notable performances and strategic plays, but the team ultimately could not overcome the Seminoles' relentless defense and clutch scoring. The Cardinal's loss in the final was a disappointing end to a season that had seen them dominate many of their opponents. Despite the setback, Stanford's performance throughout the season highlighted their status as a top contender in collegiate women's soccer .
The NCAA Women's College Cup final showcased the intensity and skill of both teams, with Florida State's victory serving as a testament to their strategic prowess and unwavering determination. The match was a thrilling display of athleticism and strategic play, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats until the very end .
As the Stanford women's soccer team reflects on the season, they will look to build on their strengths and address areas for improvement as they prepare for future competitions. The loss to Florida State serves as a motivation for the Cardinal to return stronger and more determined in the upcoming seasons, aiming to reclaim their position at the top of collegiate women's soccer .
With the 2025 season concluded, fans eagerly await the next chapter in the rivalry between Stanford and Florida State, as these two powerhouse teams continue to set the bar for excellence in collegiate women's soccer. The competition between these teams not only showcases their individual talents but also underscores the high level of skill and strategy required to succeed at the highest level of the sport .
