Chambana Sun

Illinois soccer continues Big Ten play this week with matches against Wisconsin and No. 18 Iowa. The Illini will travel to Madison for a game against Wisconsin on Thursday, followed by a home match at Demirjian Park against Iowa on Sunday. Kickoff times are set for 7 p.m. and 1 p.m. CT, respectively.

The 2024 season marks the 28th season of Illinois soccer, under the leadership of head coach Janet Rayfield, who has been at the helm for 23 seasons. The team holds an overall record of 287-220-47 (.561).

Promotions for the Iowa match include a scrimmage where one hundred kids can take on Illini soccer players following the game, open to all children in eighth grade and under.

Last week, Illinois suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Minnesota at Demirjian Park, opening their conference slate with a loss. Goalkeeper Izzy Lee made eight saves during the match but was unable to stop an 89th-minute penalty from Minnesota.

In scouting Wisconsin, Illinois trails in the all-time series with an 11-13-6 record. The last encounter between these teams was on October 12, 2023, resulting in a 1-0 loss for Illinois at home. Wisconsin currently holds a record of 4-2-1 overall and is expected to finish sixth in the Big Ten this season.

Against Iowa, Illinois leads the all-time series with a record of 15-11-3. Their last matchup ended in a 1-1 draw on September 17, 2023. This season, Iowa remains undefeated with a record of 6-0-2 and is recognized as one of the best defensive teams nationally.

Key players for Illinois include Sarah Foley and Izzy Lee. Foley has scored five goals this season while Lee boasts two clean sheets and has made significant contributions defensively with her .827 save percentage.

Illinois' offense ranks among the top in the conference with their total goals and assists placing them high nationally as well.

Upcoming fixtures include matches against Nebraska on September 26 and Maryland on September 29 as part of their ongoing Big Ten schedule.

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