The Indiana University men’s soccer program is one step away from the College Cup as it continues its quest for a ninth national championship. The Hoosiers defeated Air Force 2-0 on Sunday afternoon in Bloomington.
IU scored twice in the first half and for the most part controlled the game from start to finish, although they did have to withstand a last ditch Air Force attack late in the second half.
Indiana appears to be on top of its game at the perfect time of year. The Hoosiers (19-2-1) are back to full strength with Justin Rennicks’ return from the national team. With all hands on deck, the Hoosiers were able to open things up and create a variety of opportunities for their attack.
Air Force came into the match with one of the best attacks in the nation, but they were no match for IU’s strong backline. Air Force was unable to effectively penetrate Indiana’s final third. As a result, Hoosier goalkeeper Trey Muse only needed to make one save on the afternoon.
The win sends Indiana on to the national quarterfinals. The Hoosiers, which played in the NCAA Championship game a year ago, will host the winner of Notre Dame and Virginia next Friday for a spot in the College Cup.
Indiana got the game-winner early, as Austin Panchot’s run to the back post went unmarked, and the Indiana senior tapped a finish past Air Force keeper Andrea Seazzu six minutes in.
WATCH ➡️ Austin Panchot gets the Hoosiers on the board early.#Q49 #GoIU ⚪️🔴 pic.twitter.com/loBGvdMZg0
— Indiana Men's Soccer (@IndianaMSOC) November 25, 2018
Timmy Mehl added the Hoosiers’ second goal, heading home a set piece midway through the first half.
WATCH ➡️ Timmy Mehl makes it 2-0 for the Hoosiers.#Q49 #GoIU ⚪️🔴 pic.twitter.com/GbrYssB7rZ
— Indiana Men's Soccer (@IndianaMSOC) November 25, 2018
Trevor Swartz assisted both goals, giving the senior midfielder 15 assists on the season, the most in the nation.
You can see the official NCAA tournament bracket here.
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