Contact: Taiah Gallisath, Associate Director of Athletics Communications, 630-637-5302
Sept. 5, 2026 - Taking down its first ranked opponent since the 2024 season, the North Central College women's soccer team shut out No. 16 Carleton College, 1-0, Saturday evening inside Benedetti-Wehrli Stadium. The Cardinals improve to 2-0 on the season, while Carleton falls to 0-1 in its season opener.
The last time North Central defeated a ranked opponent was in 2024, when the Cardinals took down No. 8 University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, 6-0. The Cardinals handed Carleton its first season opener loss since the 2016 season.
Both teams battled throughout the opening half, but North Central controlled the possession and generated several scoring opportunities. The Cardinals recorded six shots in the opening 45 minutes, putting three on frame. Freshman River Pham had a good look in the final seconds of the half, but the attempt was thwarted by the Knights' goalkeeper.
In the 64th minute, Jordan Lange battled for a shot inside the box that was ultimately deflected. Gabriella Mattio collected the rebound and fired a shot, but Carleton's goalkeeper recovered to make the save.
Lange continued to create opportunities in the 71st minute after drawing a foul just outside the box. She sent the ensuing free kick on target, but the Carleton goalkeeper made a diving stop to keep the match scoreless.
North Central's defense continued to lock down the Knights' attack, allowing just one shot in the second half.
The Cardinals finally broke through in the 79th minute. Madison DeVriendt brought the ball down the left flank before delivering a cross into the box for Lange. Lange finished with a header that deflected off a Knight defender and found the back of the net, giving North Central a 1-0 advantage.
The Cardinals maintained the pressure down the stretch, with the defense keeping Carleton off the scoreboard to secure the shutout.
North Central's backline turned in a dominant defensive performance, limiting the Knights to just one shot on the night and ensuring junior goalkeeper Lily Mattison was never forced to make a save. Lange picked up her second goal of the season, while DeVriendt recorded her first assist of the year.
North Central returns to action Tuesday, Sept. 8, hosting its third of five home matches when No. 17 Calvin University comes to Naperville. Kickoff at Benedetti-Wehrli Stadium is set for 7 p.m.
