Today marks the battle for Connecticut’s top dog as UConn (4-1-1) faces in-state rival Yale (3-2) at Morrone Stadium.
The Huskies have had great success early in the season. After a draw and a loss, UConn bounced back with a four-game winning streak, including two on the road. They are coming off another New England battle against Rhode Island, which saw the Huskies win 3-1 after an early goal deficit.
Yale is coming off a loss to Fordham and has not secured any road wins this season. The Bulldogs are hoping to change that with an upset against the Huskies. The Huskies have historically beaten the Bulldogs, with UConn winning the 20 past matches against Yale. However, in their most recent matchup in 2023, Yale prevailed; UConn is looking to avenge that loss.
Connecticut has made a statement in their style of play, specifically in their offense. On average, UConn recorded 13.8 shots per game, compared to their opponent’s 7.7 average. So far, forward Chioma Okafor has led the Huskies to this dominant offense, leading the team in goals with four. She has found great help through Abbey Jones and Laci Lewis, who both have recorded two assists.
One cannot overlook the goalkeeping abilities of Kaitlyn Mahoney, who is tied 5th in shutouts for the UConn program. Mahoney has registered 22 for Connecticut and has her sights set on breaking more records with the Huskies.
The Bulldogs are looking to improve from their last season. Coming in seventh in the Ivy League, Yale failed to clinch a playoff berth and missed out on postseason action.
One strength the Bulldogs can leverage over UConn is their ability to create goals in set pieces. In fact, before their loss at home, they produced a goal through set pieces in each of their last three games.
One player to watch from the Yale side is midfielder Tanner Cahalan. Cahalan leads the team in shots per game and even produced a goal for the Bulldogs this season. Cahalan’s attacking ability could rival the strong frontline UConn has developed.
UConn’s next match will be their last non-conference game of the season, which will be a home game against Texas A&M on Sunday at 1 p.m. This will mark the Huskies’ final test before starting Big East play on the road against St. John’s.
This Connecticut matchup will kick off tonight at 7 p.m. at Storrs and will be livestreamed on UConn+.