COLUMBIA, S.C. — Carolina University Women's Soccer remained unbeaten to begin the 2026 season, battling Columbia International University to a 1-1 draw Wednesday evening at Sessions Field.
After opening the season with a 1-1 tie against Spartanburg Methodist on Saturday, the Bruins traveled to Columbia looking to build momentum against a CIU squad that entered the matchup with a 1-0-1 record.
CIU struck first, taking a 1-0 advantage just 4:24 into the contest when Lohrane Boaventura scored off an assist from Olivia Hazel. Carolina responded by creating several opportunities throughout the remainder of the opening half, recording six shots and four corner kicks before heading into halftime trailing by one.
The Bruins found their equalizer early in the second half. In the 56th minute, Destini Wilson finished an opportunity created by Ashley Sanchez, leveling the match at 1-1. The goal was Wilson's first of the season, while Sanchez collected the assist.
Carolina's defense held firm over the final 34 minutes to preserve the draw. Goalkeeper Waleska Gonzalez played all 90 minutes and finished with three saves while allowing just the one early goal.
CIU finished with a 12-9 advantage in total shots, while Carolina placed five attempts on goal. The Bruins held a 5-3 advantage in corner kicks. Wilson led the Carolina attack with the team's lone goal, while Peyton Battilla, Ashley Sanchez and Kelsey Brown each recorded two shots.
"I was proud of the way our team responded after giving up the early goal," Head Coach Boo Tesh said. "We stayed composed, continued to compete and found a way to get ourselves back into the match. Destini did a great job finishing the opportunity, and Ashley made a strong play to create it. We're continuing to grow as a group, and now our focus turns to getting ready for another opportunity on Friday."
With the result, Carolina moves to 0-0-2 on the season after consecutive 1-1 draws to begin the year.
The Bruins will have a quick turnaround as they return to action Friday, September 4, against Salem College.
