STATE COLLEGE, Pa. — Army West Point’s historic 2025 women’s soccer season came to an end Friday night with a 3-0 loss to Penn State in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at Jeffrey Field. Despite the defeat, the Black Knights (14-6-2, 5-3-1 Patriot League) concluded a breakthrough campaign that saw them reach the NCAA Tournament for the first time in 14 years.
The Nittany Lions (10-7-3, 5-4-2 Big Ten) controlled the tempo from the opening whistle, scoring twice in the first 20 minutes before adding a late insurance goal to advance in the tournament.
Historic Season for Black Knights
Under head coach Tracy Chao, Army West Point recorded 14 victories—the most wins in a single season since 2010 and the most under Chao’s tenure. The Black Knights captured their first Patriot League Tournament Championship since 2011, earning the program’s first NCAA Tournament berth in over a decade.
Army’s success this season was reflected in individual honors as well, with eight players earning All-Patriot League selections, tying the program record for most in a single season.
Penn State Dominates Early
The Nittany Lions wasted no time asserting themselves on their home field in front of 676 fans. Forward Kaitlyn MacBean opened the scoring in the ninth minute, finishing off a well-worked sequence with assists from Riley Gleason and Hannah Jordan to give Penn State a 1-0 lead.
Just nine minutes later, Amelia White doubled the advantage, converting another Gleason assist to put the Black Knights in a 2-0 hole before the 20-minute mark.
Penn State outshot Army 13-8 in the first half and held a 3-1 advantage in corner kicks, controlling possession and creating dangerous opportunities throughout the opening 45 minutes.
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Dail’s Heroics Keep Army in the Match
Despite the early deficit, Army West Point received a moment of brilliance from sophomore goalkeeper Karalyn Dail in the 30th minute. After Penn State was awarded a penalty kick, Dail dove to her left to deny Bella Ayscue’s attempt, recording her second penalty kick save of the season and keeping the deficit at two goals heading into halftime.
Dail finished the match with six saves, including several crucial stops that prevented Penn State from extending their lead further in the first half.
Second-Half Push Falls Short
The Black Knights came out with renewed energy in the second half, generating five corner kicks and creating several scoring opportunities. Senior Brigid Duffy and sophomore Bella Conti led Army’s offensive efforts, each recording three shots on the night as the Black Knights tried to claw their way back into the match.
However, Penn State’s defense held firm, and goalkeeper Mackenzie Gress made key saves when called upon. Backup goalkeeper Amanda Poorbaugh entered in the 78th minute and made two saves to preserve the clean sheet.
Penn State sealed the victory in the 75th minute when Dikte Bang found the back of the net with assists from White and Julia Raich, making it 3-0 and effectively ending Army’s comeback hopes.
Black Knights News:
- Army Gets Offense Going Late, but Falls to Niagara 6-4 to Open Series
- Army Women’s Basketball Extends Perfect Start with 67-52 Victory Over Siena
- Army Women’s Basketball Hosts Siena in Home Showdown Thursday Night
- A Night of Honor: Record Crowd Celebrates Coach K’s Legacy and Veterans Day as Duke Visits Army West Point
Final Statistics
- Shots: Penn State 21, Army West Point 9
- Shots on Goal: Penn State 9, Army West Point 3
- Corner Kicks: Army West Point 6, Penn State 3
- Saves: Karalyn Dail (Army) 6, Mackenzie Gress (Penn State) 1, Amanda Poorbaugh (Penn State) 2
- Fouls: Penn State 11, Army West Point 9
Scoring Summary
8:55 — Kaitlyn MacBean (Penn State)Assists: Riley Gleason, Hannah Jordan Army West Point 0, Penn State 1
18:10 — Amelia White (Penn State)Assist: Riley GleasonArmy West Point 0, Penn State 2
75:01 — Dikte Bang (Penn State)Assists: Amelia White, Julia RaichArmy West Point 0, Penn State 3
Key Performers
Army West Point:
- Karalyn Dail (GK): 6 saves, 1 penalty kick save
- Brigid Duffy (MID): 3 shots, 90 minutes
- Bella Conti (FWD): 3 shots, 84 minutes
- Grace Pohlidal (MID): 90 minutes
Penn State:
- Riley Gleason (MID): 2 assists
- Amelia White (FWD): 1 goal, 1 assist, 4 shots
- Kaitlyn MacBean (FWD): 1 goal, 5 shots
- Mackenzie Gress (GK): 1 save, 77 minutes
Season in Review
Despite the first-round exit, Army West Point’s 2025 season will be remembered as one of the most successful in program history. The Black Knights’ 14 wins, Patriot League Tournament Championship, and NCAA Tournament appearance mark a significant milestone for the program under Coach Chao’s leadership.
With eight All-Patriot League selections and a strong core of returning players, including sophomore standout Karalyn Dail, the foundation has been laid for continued success in future seasons.
The Black Knights’ historic campaign serves as a testament to the program’s growth and competitiveness, setting a new standard for Army West Point women’s soccer moving forward.
Game Information:
- Date: November 15, 2025
- Location: Jeffrey Field, University Park, Pa.
- Attendance: 676
- Officials:Referee: Ashley Cedro; Assistant Referees: Amelia Graytock, Taylor Heemstra; Alternate Official: Sarah Siegel
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