Penn State women's soccer opened the 2026 season with a competitive 2-2 draw against No. 2 Notre Dame. After a scoreless first half, PSU surged ahead with two quick goals from Paige Kalal and Aubrey Kulpa in the second half. However, Notre Dame responded late, equalizing the match with two goals, including a penalty kick and a last-minute redirect. Both teams showcased strong strategies and resilience, making for an exciting opener.

By the Numbers
  • Penn State held a 13-16 shots advantage, but Notre Dame edged them out overall.
  • Aubrey Kulpa recorded one goal and one assist in just 1:19 during the second half.
State of Play
  • Penn State is now 0-0-1 in the season after a challenging draw.
  • Both teams had solid defensive performances, with PSU's goalkeeper Gress making crucial saves.
What's Next

Penn State will take on No. 20 West Virginia on August 20, aiming to secure their first win of the season. They'll look to build on their strong performance and improve their offensive strategies against the Mountaineers.

Bottom Line

This gripping draw highlights Penn State's competitive spirit and potential as they navigate the season ahead, suggesting they could be strong contenders despite the challenge presented by top-ranked teams.