The West Virginia University (WVU) women’s soccer team has kicked off the season with an impressive 4-0 record, currently holding the No. 7 spot in the national rankings. This strong start has ignited excitement among Mountaineer fans, who have witnessed their team outscore opponents 8-2 and dominate in shots, 54-28, over their first four matches. The victories include notable wins against Dayton, then-No. 23 Penn State, Duquesne, and Army.
This early success is not merely a fleeting moment; WVU has not lost a regular season match since August 2025, extending their unbeaten streak to 19 games. Furthermore, this 4-0 start marks the program's best beginning since 2006, a year that is significant for many fans, especially those who have followed the team closely since then.
One of the standout players contributing to this remarkable run is Sophia Nickel, who has emerged as a key player for the Mountaineers. Nickel has scored three goals in four games, with each goal proving crucial as they were all game-winners. Her most impactful performance came during the match against Penn State, where she scored the decisive goal in a 2-1 victory. This win not only marked WVU's first triumph over Penn State since 2017 but also propelled the team from No. 22 to No. 7 in the national rankings, reflecting the significance of the match.
The Mountaineers have demonstrated resilience and adaptability, winning games even when faced with challenges. For instance, they were held scoreless against Duquesne for over 75 minutes before finding the net twice late in the game. Similarly, in their match against Army, Saige Wimes scored in the 86th minute to secure a 2-1 victory, maintaining the team's perfect start. This ability to find different scoring options is promising, as six different players have already contributed goals this season, which will be crucial as they prepare for the competitive Big 12 play ahead.
Looking ahead, the Mountaineers are set to face Marshall on Sunday at 7 p.m. at Dick Dlesk Soccer Stadium. This matchup is particularly exciting as it marks the first WVU-Marshall women's soccer game in Morgantown since 2011. The game is also part of WVU’s Gold Rush and Alumni Game festivities. Historically, the Mountaineers have dominated this rivalry, boasting a perfect 5-0 record against the Thundering Herd and outscoring them 13-0 in previous encounters. Last season, WVU secured a 2-0 victory against Marshall in Huntington, adding to their confidence heading into this matchup.
Although this is a nonconference game, the stakes are heightened due to the in-state rivalry, WVU's undefeated start, and their impressive national ranking. The anticipation surrounding this game suggests it will be an engaging early-season contest for both teams.
While it is still early in the season, with plenty of soccer left to be played, the Mountaineers are not only undefeated but also climbing the rankings and showcasing their ability to win in various ways. Should they manage to extend their record to 5-0 on Sunday, it might be time for fans to embrace their excitement even more.
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