Pioneers Win Thriller to Advance to the Finals

The Basics
Score: MNU 3 - Missouri Valley 2
Record: MNU (13-4-2), MVC (14-4-1)
Location: Gregg-Mitchell Field - Marshall, Mo.

MARSHALL, Mo. – MNU advanced to the conference tournament final with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Missouri Valley on Friday. The Pioneers rallied from a first-half deficit and secured the win with three second-half goals. Thayline Teixeira was at the heart of MNU's surge, notching two goals and assisting on a third to lift her team to victory.

Missouri Valley opened the scoring in the 14th minute when Marlene Flores struck with an assist from Marta Carrasco Mesa. MNU responded in the second half, with Teixeira leveling the game in the 57th minute off an assist from Emily Carrasco. Just minutes later, Brecklyn Hardman capitalized on Teixeira's setup, putting MNU ahead 2-1 in the 60th minute. Teixeira continued to dominate, adding a crucial insurance goal in the 71st minute from Jasmine Alcantara's assist. Missouri Valley's Flores scored again in the 74th minute to close the gap, but MNU's defense held firm, with goalkeeper Fiona Popetschnig making three crucial saves to preserve the lead, including a pivotal stop on a last-minute penalty kick.

⚽️ ladies and gentlemen, Fiona Popetschnig #FearTheNeer pic.twitter.com/SqqkjQrdr1

— MNU Sports (@mnusports) November 9, 2024

Turning Point
Teixeira's second goal in the 71st minute gave MNU a two-goal cushion and ultimately proved decisive.

Individual Leaders

• Thayline Teixeira: 2 goals, 1 assist (5 shots, 2 on goal)
• Brecklyn Hardman: 1 goal, 1 shot on goal
• Fiona Popetschnig: 3 saves, including a penalty save

Up Next
The Pioneers advance to the conference tournament final, where they will face 3-seed Central Methodist on Tuesday at 3:00.