PENSACOLA, Fla. - [Championship Bracket | Final Site Schedule | Watch Live | Live Stats] The 2024 NAIA Women's Soccer National Championship got underway this morning with what could be the game of the day. The 16-seeded Golden Eagles of John Brown (Ark.) battled the top-seeded Patriots of the Cumberlands (Ky.) and emerged victorious, 2-1. This marked the first time in the history of the national championship that a 16 seed defeated a No. 1 seed in the tournament. It was also JBU's first victory ever at the final site.

The first goal of the game came from Julia Lambert of John Brown in the 23rd minute, assisted by Lauren Walter. Cumberlands (Ky.) fought back in the second half, with Carola Fontan scoring in the 64th minute with an assist from Nicole Araujo and Jayden Boelter. However, John Brown secured the game-winning goal from Lauren Walter in the 76th minute, assisted by Katherine Keys.

Both teams put up a strong fight, with John Brown taking a total of seven shots and Cumberlands (Ky.) taking 14 shots. John Brown's goalkeeper, Marely Fonseca, made six saves, while Cumberlands (Ky.) defense was strong. There were a total of 11 corner kicks, with John Brown taking seven and Cumberlands (Ky.) taking four.

Championship Event Info:

The 41st Annual NAIA Women’s Soccer National Championship features a total of 16 teams and is played from December 2nd - 9th at Ashton Brosnaham Soccer Complex and is hosted by Pensacola Sports. 

NAIA Women’s Soccer Championship will be broadcast for FREE on Urban Edge Network and the newly redesigned NAIA Network. This includes all matches in Pensacola, Fla., including the championship match and the awards presentation. Fans can watch their favorite team from anywhere in the world.