Stanford defeated Duke 1-0 in the second semifinal match Friday, sending the Cardinals back to the Women's College Cup final, where they will face Florida State.
Stanford struck early when Jasmine Aikey buried the opener in the ninth minute, capitalizing on a strong start marked by sustained possession and an early corner. The goal gave the Cardinal immediate control, and they continued to generate chances throughout the half. Charlotte Kohler fired multiple shots, while Allie Montoya and Aikey pressured Duke's back line all night.
Duke created moments of danger, including early attempts from Elle Piper and Jocelyn Travers, but Stanford goalkeeper Caroline Birkel held firm. Birkel produced key saves on shots from Mia Minestrella and Julia Saunicheva to preserve the one-goal edge entering halftime.
In the second half, both teams traded stretches of possession, but Stanford's defense limited Duke's ability to break through in the final third. Duke managed occasional entries, yet Birkel and the Cardinals' back line was able to keep the ball out of danger. Stanford, meanwhile, continued to threaten on set pieces and transition opportunities.
The Cardinal managed the closing minutes sealing a clean sheet and earning a spot in Monday night's national championship match.