AMES — The Iowa State women’s soccer team prepares to take on the Cincinnati Bearcats on Thursday, following a 0-0 draw Sunday against Kansas State.
Head coach Matt Fannon will be in search of the team’s fourth win this season and win number 200 as a program.
“We’ve got to wake up a bit,” Fannon said. “Even when we are not playing well, we have the ability to create chances and limit opportunities in key situations.”
Thursday’s matchup will potentially have postseason implications for Iowa State and Cincinnati. Both teams are searching for a bid in this year’s Big 12 tournament. Should they win, the Cyclones will have a chance to make the postseason for the first time since 2021.
“We know that it becomes somewhat of a cup final against Cincinnati,” Fannon said. “We’re in a space where there are lots of points to be taken, and whether or not there will be space for both teams in the tournament may depend on this match.”
Cincinnati is an underwhelming 1-4 on the road this season, with its sole away victory coming against Toledo on Aug. 18. The Bearcats have yet to prove themselves on the road in Big 12 play, something that Iowa State will look to capitalize on.
Controlling the game is something that Fannon has stressed to his team in recent weeks. The Cyclones’ offensive attack has seen plenty of chances, but finishing in front of the goal has been an issue in previous matchups this season.
“We need to work on quality in the danger areas,” Fannon said. “We left a few too many gaps in the midfield, and we have to do a better job of finishing in front of the goal.”
Iowa State’s defense has looked strong in recent weeks. Defenders Ella Zimmerman and Adelaide Wolfe led the charge that held Kansas State scoreless and will look to do the same on Thursday.
This strong defensive performance against the Wildcats also earned goalkeeper Avery Gillahan Big 12 Goalkeeper of the Week honors. Gillahan made six saves in this game, leading her to this prestigious honor.
Fannon is confident that with a strong defense and enough opportunities, the Cyclones can deliver throughout the remainder of the season.
“At the end of the day, we can point at things that have been difficult this year,” Fannon said. “If we can come into this game and the rest of the season with the right mentality, we’ll be good.”
The matchup against Cincinnati will take place at 6 p.m. Thursday from the Cyclone Sports Complex. It will also be streamed live on ESPN+.
