Florida State sneaks in a late goal to take down Stanford 1-0 to win the women’s College Cup

No. 1 Stanford and No. 3 Florida State’s meeting in the Women’s College Cup final marks a rematch from the 2023 national championship affair, when the Seminoles won in commanding fashion, 5-1. This postseason, both teams have dominated the pitch, knocking down each opponent. Here’s a closer breakdown on how they got to the title game.

Florida State (15-2-4)

There aren’t many programs in the country with more success than the Seminoles over the last decade. Florida State has reached the College Cup five out of the last six years and won it all in 2018, 2021 and 2023 — talk about dominance. 

And the writing was on the wall for them to make a deep run again. They outscored their opponents 12-2 in the first four rounds of the NCAA tournament and most recently shut out No. 2 TCU in the semifinals, 1-0, the team’s 12th of the season.

FSU hasn’t lost a match since Oct. 16, coincidentally to Stanford 2-1. 

Now, Monday presents an opportunity to get revenge and win their fifth national championship.

Stanford (21-1-2)

The top overall seed in this year’s tournament, Stanford has been dominant on the postseason pitch so far, at least for the offense. The Cardinal beat Cal Poly 3-1 in the first round, overpowered No. 8 Alabama 7-3 in the second, routed No. 5 BYU 6-0 in the third and defeated No. 2 Michigan State 5-1 in the quarterfinals before a 1-0 victory over No. 2 Duke in the semis.

They’ve outscored their opponents 22-5 and have won 17 straight matches — there’s no hotter in the country than them. 

Stanford will make its 14th national championship appearance and is seeking its first title since 2019.