Ohio State women’s soccer just pulled off the biggest win in program history. The Buckeyes upset No. 1 Notre Dame 1-0 in double overtime on Nov. 20, 2025. Sophomore Jadin Bonham scored the stunning game-winner with just 34 seconds remaining. The victory sends Ohio State to the Sweet 16 for the second straight year.
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🔥 Quick Facts:
- Final Score: Ohio State 1, Notre Dame 0 (2OT) on Nov. 20
- Game-Winner: Jadin Bonham scored at the 109:28 mark, with 34 seconds left
- Key Assist: Mia McSweeney delivered the perfect cross into the box
- Historic Achievement: Highest-ranked win ever in Ohio State women’s soccer history
- Next Round: Buckeyes face No. 23 Baylor on Nov. 23, 2025 in the Sweet 16
How Bonham’s Last-Gasp Winner Changed Everything
Notre Dame dominated possession for nearly 110 minutes. The Fighting Irish sent 36 shots toward goal and had 14 corner kicks. But Ohio State’s defense held firm through pure determination. Goalkeeper Molly Pritchard was sensational, making 5 saves and frustrating Notre Dame‘s relentless attack.
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Then came the dramatic finish. McSweeney lofted a perfectly placed ball into the box late in the second overtime. Bonham was waiting, staying calm under immense pressure. She finished with her left foot to the bottom right corner. The net rippled. The stadium erupted. Ohio State had done the unthinkable.
“The goal capped an elite defensive performance. Goalkeeper Molly Pritchard was sensational, turning away multiple dangerous chances as Ohio State held off relentless Notre Dame pressure.”
Why This Upset Shocks College Soccer
Nobody saw this coming. Ohio State entered the tournament as essentially a No. 9 seed in their region. They had an 8-4-6 regular season record with six draws that made their at-large resume look questionable. Yet here they are.
Notre Dame was the No. 1 overall seed and ranked No. 2 in the United Soccer Coaches poll. The Fighting Irish were undefeated in the regular season with a 15-2-3 record. Experts picked them to win it all. Their record spoke volumes. Then Ohio State showed up for 110 minutes of soccer brilliance.
This marks Ohio State’s first-ever NCAA Tournament win against Notre Dame in three meetings. It’s only the second time in program history the Buckeyes have won two tournament games back-to-back seasons.
Game Statistics & Match Details
The numbers tell the story. Notre Dame had 36 shots to Ohio State’s 8. The Fighting Irish had 14 corners versus 4 for the Buckeyes. Yet somehow, Ohio State got the only goal that mattered.
| Stat | Ohio State | Notre Dame |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | 1 | 0 |
| Total Shots | 8 | 36 |
| Shots on Goal | 5 | 5 |
| Corner Kicks | 4 | 14 |
| Saves | 5 | 4 |
| Fouls | 8 | 6 |
Bonham had 3 shots with 2 on goal before finishing the winner. It was pure composure when everything was on the line for both teams.
What Comes Next for the Buckeyes
- Next Opponent: No. 23 Baylor awaits on Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025
- Location: Match continues in South Bend where the Notre Dame upset happened
- Time: 2:00 PM on Nov. 23 against the Lady Bears
- Path Forward: Sweet 16 runs deep into tournament season
- Season Goals: First national championship push since joining elite tier
Can Ohio State Keep the Magic Going Against Baylor?
This victory changes everything for Ohio State women’s soccer. But with greatness comes bigger tests ahead. Baylor is no pushover and reached the Sweet 16 by beating Wisconsin 1-0. The Lady Bears know how to grind out tight matches just like Ohio State does.
The Buckeyes proved they belong with the nation’s elite. Pritchard showed why she’s one of the best goalkeepers in college soccer. Bonham showed killer instinct in the moment it mattered most. McSweeney showed brilliant vision. This team’s confidence skyrocketed with one kick of the ball in the 109th minute.
Can they replicate this magic against Baylor? That’s the next chapter.
Sources
- Ohio State Athletics – Official game recap and statistics
- USA Today/Buckeyes Wire – Tournament analysis and team context
- NCAA.com – Official tournament coverage and brackets
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.